As Florida explores the idea of abolishing property taxes, an analyst cautions that nothing is necessarily free’

Nathalia Steffanetta, originally from Memphis, moved with her family to Seminole Heights six years ago, hoping to settle there permanently.

Yet, Steffanetta notes that escalating property taxes have created financial strain.

“It’s heartbreaking to see costs spiraling out of control. My husband and I both have solid jobs, but what options do we have?” she remarked.

This dilemma is now a topic of debate in the Florida Legislature.

Senate Bill 852 calls for a study on phasing out property taxes, a proposal Gov. Ron DeSantis endorsed during his March State of the State address.

“You purchase a house, pay off the mortgage, and still, year after year, you’re forced to pay the government just to stay on your own land,” DeSantis stated. “Do you truly own it, or are you merely leasing it from the state?”

The idea sparks debate, given that property taxes are a vital revenue stream for local governments, schools, and infrastructure projects.

The Florida Policy Institute reports that property tax revenue in the state surpasses $42 billion annually.

“Nothing is necessarily free. Eliminate property taxes, and you’re left with sales taxes and a few other alternatives. We don’t have an income tax here, and we’d be the first state to drop property taxes entirely,” said Estaban Santis, an analyst with the Florida Policy Institute.

Santis emphasizes that the lost revenue would need to be replaced.

“Public budgets require equilibrium. Cut taxes in one area, and you either raise them elsewhere or reduce services,” he explained.

Gov. DeSantis, however, insists that won’t be necessary.

“This governor won’t approve any tax hikes,” he declared.

The Florida Policy Institute suggests alternative relief options—like exemptions, credits, and lower rates—to create a more equitable property tax framework for homeowners.

Steffanetta supports any measures that could ease the burden of homeownership, not only for her peers but also for future generations.

“There’s so much chatter about people feeling homeownership is out of reach,” she said.

Eliminating property taxes would require a constitutional amendment, needing at least 60% voter approval.

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