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A study claims voting in a same-sex marriage bill would provide Maine a major economic infusion.

By SUSAN M. COVER, Kennebec Journal February 23, 2009

AUGUSTA — The Maine economy would see a $60 million boost over three years if same-sex couples are allowed to marry here, according to a California-based think tank that works to advance the rights of gays and lesbians.

Supporters of a bill to allow gay marriage in the state released the study last week from the Williams Institute at the University of California School of Law.

Opponents say the study has come out at a time when people are worried about the economy but that, even still, it's not likely to change anyone's opinion about the subject.

The institute has done similar analyses for other states and based its conclusions on a calculation of how many Maine gay and lesbian couples would get married in the first three years, and how many same-sex couples from out of state would travel to Maine to get married.

It estimated 2,316 gay or lesbian couples would get married if state law allowed it. Also, it believes more than 15,000 couples from out of state would come here to wed if they could.

To come up with the economic impact, it estimated that Maine couples would spend $4,641 on a wedding, while those from out of state would spend $3,143. Also, it calculated that tax revenues and fees would generate $3.6 million, also over three years.

The bill, which has yet to be released by the Legislature's bill writing office, will get a public hearing in the coming weeks.

Studies with economic information do prove helpful when weighing the pros and cons of a particular bill, said Godfrey Wood, CEO of the Portland Regional Chamber. He said his group has not taken a position on the bill, but if they do, it would be within the next two weeks.

The factors they will consider include whether allowing gay couples to marry would boost tourism, encourage young people to stay in Maine or attract creative people who want to make Maine their home, Wood said.