Business Love for Same-Sex Marriage

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So far, the debate over same-sex marriage has been mostly confined to a question of equality versus tradition. But now, the economics of marriage is getting more play. On Friday, a collection of two-dozen high-profile business leaders sent a letter to New York Governor Andrew Cuomo urging him to work with state lawmakers to legalize same-sex marriage.

“In an age where talent determines the economic winners, great states and cities must demonstrate a commitment to creating an open, healthy, and equitable environment in which to live and work,” the letter said. “As other states, cities, and countries across the world extend marriage rights regardless of sexual orientation, it will become increasingly difficult to recruit the best talent if New York cannot offer the same benefits and protection.”

The letter's signatories are an impressive bunch. Among them: Goldman Sachs CEO Lloyd Blankfein, Tishman Speyer Properties chief Jerry Speyer, Morgan Stanley chairman John J. Mack, venture capitalist Alan J. Patricof, Revlon chairman Ronald O. Perelman, and publisher Mort Zuckerman. To see the full letter and the rest of the business executives who signed it, click here.

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