LOS ANGELES — The Big Apple raked in $275 million in economic benefits plus city revenues directly linked to New York state’s decision to embrace gay marriage.
LOS ANGELES — The Big Apple raked in $275 million in economic benefits plus city revenues directly linked to New York state’s decision to embrace gay marriage.
“Marriage equality has made our city more open, inclusive and free — and it has also helped to create jobs and support our economy,” New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg said at a news conference.
New York legalized gay marriage in July 2011. Since then, more than 8,200 same-sex marriage licenses have been issued in New York City, about 10 percent of all marriage licenses issued in the city during that time.
In turn, it is estimated that more than 200,000 guests have traveled to New York City to attend same-sex wedding receptions, and more than 235,000 hotel room nights were booked at an average daily room rate of $275, according to an economic impact survey conducted by NYC & Co. and the City Clerk’s Office.
Such spending amounted to about $259 million in economic benefits for the city, and an additional $16 million in city revenues, according to Bloomberg’s office.
The impact is likely to boost an “NYC I Do” marketing campaign to make New York City the world’s No. 1 spot for gay weddings and honeymoons.
Joining Bloomberg at the news conference was New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn.
“Here we have a moment to celebrate a year of unadulterated joy,” said Quinn, who recently married her same-sex partner. “What better thing could the government do than pass laws that make people equal?”