A new economic study says the legalization of same-sex marriage in Hawaii will provide a substantial boost to the state’s economy.

The report was authored by noted University of Hawaii economics professor Sumner La Croix. …

The report says the impact will be felt from increased spending by same sex-couples visiting the islands to marry, by their out-of state guests for both resident and non-resident ceremonies, and by out of state same-sex couples visiting Hawaii to honeymoon.

Using a multiplier effect, the report estimates that legalizing same-sex marriage in Hawaii will result in total additional spending ranging from $46 million to $258 million over the 2014-2016 period.

The report also found that passage of same-sex marriage legislation is not likely to lead to substantial increases in employee health insurance expenditures . …

Photo courtesy Fibonacci Blue.