DeSantis Proposes Property Tax Elimination, Special Session Underway
Key Questions
What is Governor DeSantis proposing regarding property taxes?
DeSantis has proposed eliminating homestead property taxes and called a special legislative session. The Legislature approved the plan with school funding protections and sent the measure to the November ballot.
What does the latest poll show about support for the property tax amendment?
A new poll indicates 64% support for the amendment, though it reveals a strong partisan split among respondents.
How many lawsuits are challenging the property tax ballot language?
Three lawsuits now challenge the amendment, arguing that the ballot language is biased or misleading.
Will DeSantis campaign for the property tax amendment?
DeSantis has stated he will not campaign for the amendment on the November ballot.
What concerns have been raised about the fiscal impact on local governments?
Local leaders warn of a potential $14 billion revenue loss and cuts to services. Okaloosa County specifically projects a $24 million cut by year two, leading to a hiring freeze and capital project holds.
What budget has Okaloosa County proposed for FY2027?
Okaloosa County has proposed a $769 million budget for fiscal year 2027 with no millage increase, though officials note the homestead exemption could reduce general fund revenue by 23% in year two.
What demographic analysis affects the revenue assumptions for the tax cuts?
Analysis shows the proposed cuts rely on continued population growth that has slowed dramatically since 2020, challenging long-term revenue projections.
What action has Leon County Commissioner Bill Proctor requested?
Commissioner Proctor has asked DeSantis to tour an impoverished district to assess potential damage from the tax plan before proceeding.
Governor DeSantis proposed eliminating homestead property taxes, calling a special session. Legislature approved the plan with school funding protected, sending it to the November ballot. New poll shows 64% support, with strong partisan split. A third lawsuit challenges ballot language as biased. DeSantis now says he won't campaign for the amendment. New demographic analysis warns tax cuts rely on slowing population growth, challenging revenue assumptions. Local leaders warn of $14B loss and service cuts. Okaloosa County Administrator John Hofstad warns $24M cut by year two, hiring freeze and capital holds. Okaloosa County proposes $769M budget for FY2027 with no millage increase, but Hofstad warns homestead exemption could cut general fund revenue 23% in year two; hiring freeze until November. Fort Walton Beach Council set maximum millage rate, outsourced daycare/aftercare. Stop Unfair Tax Shifts coalition organizing. Non-ad valorem fee shifts could erase savings. Voters decide in November. New: Leon County Commissioner Proctor asks DeSantis to tour impoverished district to see potential damage.