The Williams Institute has released its latest study. From their executive summary on the Economic Boost of Marriage for Same-Sex Couples in Louisiana:
If marriage is extended to same-sex couples in Louisiana, the state would see an economic boost as same-sex couples plan their weddings and their out-of-state guests purchase goods and services in the state. This study estimates the impact of wedding spending on the state’s economy and on state and local sales tax revenue.
- We predict that 4,038 in-state same-sex couples would choose to marry in the three years following the extension of marriage rights to same-sex couples in Louisiana.
- The total spending on wedding arrangements and tourism by resident same-sex couples and their guests would add an estimated $28.3 million to the state and local economy of Louisiana over the course of three years, with an $18.1 million boost in the first year alone.
- This economic boost would add $2.5 million in sales tax revenue to state and local coffers.
- Spending related to same-sex couples’ wedding ceremonies and celebrations would generate 97 to 290 full- and part-time jobs in the state
Since that money will benefit our entire economy and not just the same-sex couples and their families who will have their loving relationship recognized, I’m not sure what else those in opposition need to hear.
No one is forcing any religion to recognize the marriage, although many religious do celebrate them – including the Presbyterians! The extremists who would hijack our nation’s Congress with another attempt to enshrine discrimination in the US constitution are out of step with America and on the wrong side of history.
It basically comes down to a really simple choice: If you are opposed marriage equality, do not get gay married! Leave the rest of us the hell alone!