NEW YORK (CNN) – Gay marriage is generating millions of dollars for New York City’s economy.
Since gay marriage was legalized in New York state a year ago, marriage license fees, local celebrations and wedding-related purchases have boosted New York City’s economy by $259 million.
“Marriage equality has made our city more open, inclusive and free – and it has also helped to create jobs and support our economy,” Mayor Michael Bloomberg said in a statement.
More than 8,200 same-sex marriage licenses have been issued over the past year, representing more than 10 percent of the 75,000 licenses issued in the city, according to a survey conducted by the City Clerk’s Office and NYC & Company.
The city collected $16 million in tax revenue from same-sex marriages over the past year. But weddings brought the biggest economic boost to the city, with about 67 percent of same-sex couples holding wedding receptions at venues throughout New York City’s five boroughs.
