Florida lawmakers have introduced a comprehensive package of eight proposals aimed at significantly reforming property taxes, primarily targeting relief for homeowners with homestead exemptions. These measures, designed to address soaring home values and ease the tax burden on residents, are slated to appear on the 2026 general election ballot for voter approval. A key commonality across all proposals is the exclusion of taxes funding K-12 public schools, while also ensuring no reduction in law enforcement spending.
Key Takeaways
- Eight distinct proposals aim to cut property taxes for Florida homeowners.
- Most proposals require voter approval via the 2026 ballot.
- All proposals exempt the portion of property taxes dedicated to K-12 school funding.
- Local government spending on law enforcement will not be impacted.
A Menu of Tax Relief Options
Spearheaded by House Speaker Daniel Perez, the legislative effort offers Floridians a choice of reforms, allowing them to select "some, all, or none of the proposals" on the upcoming ballot. This multi-pronged approach reflects a commitment to voter-driven decision-making on tax matters. Governor Ron DeSantis has been a vocal advocate for property tax relief, particularly for homesteaded properties.
Specific House Proposals Detailed
The eight proposals offer a range of options, from outright elimination to phased reductions and enhanced exemptions:
- HB 201: Eliminates all non-school property taxes for homesteaded properties starting January 1, 2027.
- HB 203: Phases out non-school property taxes for homesteads over 10 years, increasing the exemption by $100,000 annually.
- HB 205: Eliminates non-school property taxes for residents aged 65 and older with a homestead exemption.
- HB 207: Increases the homestead exemption for non-school taxes to 25% of the home’s assessed value.
- HB 209: Provides an additional $100,000 homestead exemption for homeowners who maintain property insurance.
- HB 211: Removes the $500,000 cap on transferring the "Save Our Homes" benefit (portability) to a new property.
- HB 213: Modifies caps on assessed value growth, limiting homestead properties to a 3% increase over three years for non-school taxes and non-homestead properties to 15% over three years.
- HB 215: Requires a two-thirds vote for local governments to increase property tax rates and allows newly married couples to combine their "Save Our Homes" benefits.
Addressing Concerns and Future Steps
While the proposals aim to provide significant relief, they also acknowledge the reliance of local governments on property tax revenue. Lawmakers have stated their belief that efficiencies can be found within local government budgets without compromising essential services like law enforcement and education. The Senate is currently reviewing the House’s proposals, and further legislative action will be necessary before these measures can be placed on the ballot.
Sources
- Lawmakers eye 2026 ballot for property tax overhaul, Tallahassee Democrat.
- 8 proposals aim to cut property taxes: Here’s what Rep. Overdorf told WPTV, WPTV.
- Florida House rolls out property tax proposals for homeowners, Miami Herald.
- Florida Releases Proposals to Reform Property Taxes, The National Law Review.