Florida
Campaign Opposes Property Tax Cut Amendment Ahead of November Vote
Three weeks after the Florida Legislature placed a proposed constitutional amendment on the November ballot that would increase the state’s homestead property tax exemption, a political committee has launched a campaign opposing the measure. Stop Unfair Tax Shifts is chaired…
Key points
- A campaign has launched to oppose a proposed property tax amendment set for the November ballot.
- The amendment could result in significant cuts to local services and increased financial burdens on residents and small businesses.
- Local governments could face billions in lost property tax revenue if the amendment passes.
NewsWK — As the November ballot approaches, a new political campaign has emerged in Escambia County opposing a proposed constitutional amendment that aims to increase Florida’s homestead property tax exemption. The group, called Stop Unfair Tax Shifts, is led by former Leon County Commissioner Bryan Desloge.
Desloge and his committee have launched a website, VoteNoOnAmendment3.com, where they argue that if Amendment 3 is passed by the required 60% vote, it could lead to significant cuts in essential services or a tax burden shift that could adversely affect certain residents. Desloge stated, “As a former county commissioner, I know first-hand the bills for public safety, roads and bridges, stormwater protection and even hurricane response don’t go away. The consequences of Amendment 3 will shift those bills, causing higher rent, more expensive everyday purchases, costlier first homes, and many small businesses that can’t absorb an increase in commercial property taxes.”
If approved, Amendment 3 would raise the homestead exemption to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, while also modifying the assessed growth cap on non-homesteaded properties. Estimates indicate that local governments, including those in Escambia County, could face a nearly $5 billion loss in property tax revenue during the 2027-28 fiscal year if the amendment is enacted. This financial shortfall could escalate to approximately $10.75 billion by the fourth year after implementation.
The proposed amendment has garnered support from Governor Ron DeSantis and was approved by the Republican-controlled Legislature in a special session earlier this month. Local officials and residents are encouraged to consider the implications of this measure on community services and overall economic health.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
Based on reporting originally published by Florida Phoenix. Read the original story.
