Florida lawmakers propose multiple property tax changes
In January, the Florida House will begin a 60‑day regular session and already has seven property‑tax reform proposals slated for the 2026 election. The proposals aim to alter exemptions, notably eliminating non‑school property taxes on homesteaded residences, which affect about 5.1 million Floridians.
House Speaker Daniel Perez said the legislature plans to present voters with multiple options rather than a single plan. The proposals could reduce local‑government revenue by up to $18 billion annually, according to state revenue estimates.
Senate President Ben Albritten urged a cautious approach, warning that rural and municipal finances could suffer from the proposed cuts. The governor has expressed opposition to offering multiple ballot measures, stating a single measure would be more effective.
Any constitutional amendment requires a three‑fifths majority in both chambers, and a 60 percent majority of voters to pass. Accepted amendments would not take effect until July 1, 2027.
Current homestead exemptions allow two $25,000 deductions; if eliminated, cities like Orlando could lose roughly $72 million of the $454 million in tax revenue, while unincorporated Orange County would lose about $278 million of its $1.17 billion.