New Study: Legal Gay Marriage in Mich. Would Bring in Over $53 Million in 3 Years

If same-sex marriage were to be legalized in Michigan, it would bring in $53.2 million to the state's economy over three years, according to a new study by the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, MLive.com reports.

The data comes from researchers who used census data and experiences in other states. They found that nearly 7,300 Michigan same-sex couples would tie the knot in the first three years if the state's ban on gay marriage was struck down.

Researchers say the couples and their loved ones would spend about $34.1 million on wedding paramagnets and Michigan tourism in the first year alone. Another $19.2 million would be spent over the following two years. According to the study, that spending could support between 152 and 457 full-time and part-time jobs and generate about $3.2 million in sales tax and revenue for Michigan and the local government.

"If marriage is extended to same-sex couples in Michigan, the state would see an economic boost as same-sex couples plan their weddings and as their out-of-state guests purchase goods and services in the state," the study's authors wrote.

A U.S. 6th District Court of Appeals is currently considering whether or not Michigan's ban on gay marriage is constitutional. Oral arguments in the case were heard last week, after a stay was placed on a lower court's ruling to overturn the ban.

MLive.com reports that over 58 percent of Michigan voters believed that marriage is a union between one man and one woman in 2004, but much has changed in the last 10 years.

"What we've seen, over and over again, is that the tides are shifting on marriage equality," Gina Calcagno, coalition manager for Michigan for Marriage, told the website. "Aside from the heartfelt belief this is the right thing to do, we're seeing this is the economically correct thing to do as well. $53.2 million coming into a state like Michigan is nothing to scoff at."

MLive.com also wrote that the study "did not consider the immediate state budget impact of same-sex couples filing joint tax returns, which critics say is an important part of the debate." Michigan is one of 21 states that "would see an income tax revenue reduction if same-sex marriage were legalized, costing the state about $482,000 a year."

The new report suggests that the sales tax revenue would make up the difference, however.

"It is important to note that also allowing out-of-state same-sex couples the opportunity to wed will likely result in further economic gains for Michigan businesses," the study reads "This impact would then translate into additional increased tax revenue for the state and local budgets."

This story is part of our special report: "Gay Marriage". Want to read more? Here's the full list.