Research

Marriage Equality and the Transnational Flow of Skilled Labor: The Impact of Same-Sex Marriage Legalization in the United States on the Inflow of Skilled Labor

Manuscript in AEA Papers and Proceedings

This paper examines the impact on skilled labor migration to the United States of same-sex marriage legalization in European countries and US federal recognition of foreign same-sex marriages. Analyzing data from the US Department of Homeland Security, we find that European legalization decreased skilled labor admissions to the United States by 22 percent, most notably after six years. However, US recognition of foreign same-sex marriages mitigated this effect post–2013, indicating that such legalizations facilitate skilled labor movement between nations.

Ultra-processed Food Demand across the Lifecycle: Implications for Obesity in the United States

The United States has witnessed a persistent rise in obesity rates since the early 1980s, despite a plateau in energy intake. One of the possible factors is the increased prevalence of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), foods with substantial levels of processing, in the food retailing landscape. Structural shifts have led to the dominance of UPFs in areas designated as food deserts, potentially exacerbating obesity risks, especially among vulnerable populations like older people.

This paper estimates the demand and demand elasticity of UPF for different age groups using structural demand and household-level scanner data. Using the same data, we establish a causal link between purchasing ratio of UPF and obesity. Understanding the broader demand and health effects of UPFs is crucial for informed policy decisions.

Publications:

Awad, K., Maas, A., & Wardropper, C. (2021). Preferences for alternative water supplies in the Pacific Northwest: A discrete choice experiment. Journal of Water Resources Planning and Management, 147(4), 04021007.