Gay Weddings Generate $259 million for New York City
A year after New York legalized gay nuptials, the money is rolling in.
According to a statement released by New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, in the first year alone same-sex marriages have generated an estimated $259 million in economic impact and $16 million in city revenues.
Marriage equality supporters have long argued that embracing same-sex marriage would do much for the economy. Although some opponents have scoffed at the assertion, the figures released by the mayor’s office reinforce the argument that marriage equality is good for the economy.
Around 8,200 marriage licenses have been issued to same-sex couples in New York City since the state began permitting same-sex couples to wed this time last year. Of the 75,000 marriage licenses issued by the city since July 25, 2011, about 10 percent have been for same-sex couples.
The scope of the economic impact on the city was determined after a survey was launched by NYC & Company and the City Clerk’s Office. The final report also notes that gay weddings have spurred the city’s tourism industry as more than 200,000 traveled to the city as wedding guests.
Speaking at the Manhattan Marriage Bureau, Bloomberg said since the passage of marriage equality, New York City has welcomed more and more couples and their families from around the world.
“Marriage equality has made our city more open, inclusive and free – and it has also helped to create jobs and support our economy,” Bloomberg said.
[Photo: Michael Bloomberg]
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