Florida legislators are gathering in Tallahassee today for the state’s third special session of the year, taking up a sweeping property tax relief proposal put forward by Gov. Ron DeSantis.
The governor’s plan, called “Save Our Homes from Excessive Property Taxes,” centers on increasing the homestead exemption to shield the first $250,000 of a home’s value from taxation. Additional provisions would limit future property tax assessments on businesses, require local governments to use remaining tax revenue for core services such as education, public safety, and infrastructure, and establish a state trust fund to help offset potential revenue losses for municipalities.
Homeowners who move to Florida after January 1, 2027 would need to establish five years of state residency before qualifying for the exemption. DeSantis has said the waiting period is intended to prevent a rush of new arrivals seeking the tax break, framing the benefit as a reward for long-term residents.
The governor’s office launched a website with a calculator allowing homeowners to estimate their potential savings based on 2025 tax bills.
Not everyone is convinced the proposal delivers a straightforward benefit. University of Central Florida political science professor Aubrey Jewett said critics argue that reduced property tax revenue for counties, cities, and school districts will force either cuts to public services or tax increases elsewhere — and that renters, second-home owners, and agricultural property owners may bear some of the burden.
Senate President Ben Albritton indicated last week that a floor vote could come as early as Tuesday or Wednesday. If the legislature approves a measure, it would go to DeSantis for his signature and then appear on the November ballot, where it would need support from 60 percent of voters to take effect. If passed, the changes would apply beginning in 2027.
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