DeSantis Calls Special Session To Eliminate Homestead Taxes
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Tampa, Fla. Governor Ron DeSantis announced Wednesday he will call a special legislative session starting Monday in Tallahassee to place a constitutional amendment on the November ballot that would raise the homestead exemption to $250,000 and direct lawmakers to develop a schedule to phase out homestead property taxes for Florida homeowners.
Lawmakers must approve placing the amendment on the ballot with at least 60% support in both chambers and submit finalized language by August; if enacted by voters, raising the exemption toward $500,000 could make roughly 92% of homesteaded properties tax-free, while the governor proposed a state trust fund to offset local revenue losses during transition.
More context
Timeline
- 1. Over the prior year, Governor DeSantis publicly discussed proposals to reduce or eliminate property taxes.
- 2. Wednesday: DeSantis formally unveiled the plan and announced a special legislative session starting Monday.
- 3. Monday: Special session convenes in Tallahassee to consider placing the amendment on the November ballot.
- 4. By August: Lawmakers have a statutory window to finalize specific ballot language for the amendment.
- 5. November: Voters would decide the amendment; it requires at least 60% approval to pass.
Why it matters
If you're a Florida homeowner, this could mean big savings. A higher homestead exemption and a phase-out of property taxes could leave more money in your pocket. Check your current property tax bill to see the potential impact.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
