Florida Voters Face DeSantis Property Tax Amendment

Florida property tax amendment DeSantis homestead exemption local government revenue tax shift

The Florida Legislature approved Governor Ron DeSantis' property‑tax proposal and turned it into a constitutional amendment that will be placed on the November ballot. The measure would raise the homestead exemption from $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027 and to $250,000 in 2028, but it was amended so that school‑tax revenues are excluded.

The amendment, known as HJR 1F, requires 60 % of voters to approve it. Supporters say it relieves homeowners; opponents, including the Florida Association of Counties and the Florida Policy Institute, warn it shifts billions of dollars away from local services, potentially cutting $8.4 billion in annual local‑government revenue.

The Senate passed the bill 30‑9 and the House 75‑26, with a few Republicans joining Democrats in opposition. Critics describe the plan as a tax shift rather than a tax cut, arguing municipalities may need to raise other taxes or fees to fund services such as public safety, infrastructure and health programs.

Sources

Florida Lawmakers Pass Gov. DeSantis' Property Tax Proposal [wrenews.com]

2 months ago

Florida lawmakers pass DeSantis property tax proposal. Now it's up to the voters [www.orlandoweekly.com]

2 months ago