Could Same-Sex Marriage In Illinois Hurt Indiana Business?

Illinois residents voted Tuesday to allow same-sex marriages in the state, starting in June.

Indiana does not allow same-sex marriages, and  HJR-6 is the proposed resolution to include a ban of same-sex marriages in the state constitution.

The Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce came out against the measure last month because the organization believes it will hinder recruiting businesses and talent.

"The millennial generation, the younger generation certainly looks at several factors for quality of life," said Mark Fisher, vice president of government relations and policy development.  "They may not feel strongly about this issue, but they certainly don't want to live in a place that is perceived as intolerant.  So, this certainly would hurt our ability to attract people and convince them that we are welcoming to all people."

Overall, Fisher calls Indiana a more welcoming business climate, especially in terms of taxation and regulation.

"Illinois has over a $100 billion pension liability that they can't come to an agreement on how to fund that or solve that problem," he said.  "That leads companies to be very nervous about the long term impact on taxation and regulation.  So, from that standpoint, Indiana is in a really good position."

But, now that Illinois will allow gay marriage, he thinks it could cost Hoosiers business opportunities.

"In the long run, what is very concerning is our ability to attract and retain that talented workforce.  Companies need a highly educated, highly talented workforce to make their businesses work," said Fisher. "Eventually our ability to attract and retain talent in our state will affect our - and is currently affecting our - ability to attract and retain jobs."

Companies such as Cummins and Eli Lilly have come out in opposition of HJR-6.

And, Indiana Business Research Center Director Jerry Conover says when deciding between Illinois and Indiana, companies will have an interesting choice.

"If Indiana joins the number of states that have such bans of same-sex marriage, there would certainly be some firms that would choose not to locate in a state like that and it's perhaps a growing number of firms," he said.  "Although, you'd have to weigh that off against - for a company perspective - the higher cost of doing business in Illinois.  But, it could be a factor."