Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez unveiled an online calculator this week that allows homeowners and business owners to estimate how proposed state property tax reductions could affect their tax bills.

The tool comes as Florida lawmakers debate a series of proposals that, if approved by the Legislature and voters, could significantly reduce or eliminate non-school property taxes on primary residences statewide. One measure, HJR 203, passed the Florida House 80–30 on February 19, 2026. If the Senate also approves it, the proposal would go before voters on the November 2026 general election ballot, where it would need at least 60% support to pass.

None of the active proposals eliminate property taxes entirely. All focus on the non-school portion of ad valorem property taxes — those collected by cities, counties, and special districts. Homeowners would continue paying school district taxes under every current proposal.

The stakes are particularly high for Hillsborough County. According to the Florida Office of Economic and Demographic Research, Hillsborough County could lose as much as $1.2 billion in revenue if non-school homestead property taxes are eliminated — placing it among the ten counties in the state projected to face the largest losses. Neighboring Pinellas and Pasco counties could lose up to $907 million and $480 million, respectively.

Henriquez noted that eliminating property taxes could affect “everything from getting your pothole filled, to new roads, to fixing existing roads, to building a Rays stadium,” and said the county would need to find a way to make up roughly $800 million annually.

Local officials are divided on the proposals. Hillsborough Commissioner Joshua Wostal supports limiting relief to homesteaded properties and suggested a 3.5-cent sales tax increase could offset the revenue loss. Tampa City Councilman Alan Clendenin expressed concern that shifting from property taxes to a sales tax would place a heavier burden on lower-income families and create a less predictable funding stream for essential services like police and fire.

Florida Policy Institute Director of Research Esteban Santis cautioned that residents shouldn’t expect net savings. “Floridians are going to be paying for the relief,” he said. “You’re not getting savings out of nothing.”

The proposals must clear the Florida Senate before appearing on the November ballot. Gov. Ron DeSantis has expressed support for property tax reform but indicated he prefers taking more time to get the details right.

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