Same-sex unions seen boosting economy

Legalization of same-sex marriage would be a windfall for New York City and state, according to a report issued yesterday by city Comptroller William C. Thompson.

The report, "Love Counts: The Economic Benefits of Marriage Equality for New York," predicts the city economy would gain $142 million, while the state economy would gain $184 million in the three years following legalization.

According to the study, most of the revenue would come from money spent on weddings. It's estimated that ceremonies both simple and lavish would swell the city's coffers by $175 million and the state's by $247 million. Other gains would derive from hotel stays, increased tax revenues, and marriage license fees.