DeSantis proposes eliminating homestead tax exemption; special session June 1

Property tax overhaul on November ballot: homestead exemption to $150k in 2027 and $250k in 2028, exempt from school taxes, requiring 60% approval. Local governments warn of severe cuts (Duval $386.9M, Monroe cuts to 911, Escambia $38M-$56M, Safety Harbor $600k-700k, etc.). DeSantis signs SB 4-F (tightens millage rates, supermajority vote) and HB 1329 (budget transparency, 10% cut exercise). CFO Ingoglia calls local warnings 'scare tactics.' Two lawsuits challenge ballot language as misleading. 85% poll support. New analysis shows the amendment is a tax shift, not a cut, with county leaders warning of cuts to EMS, libraries, and parks. DeSantis now says he won't campaign for the amendment, cooling on it. Fraternal Order of Police joins fire chiefs in opposing the amendment over public safety funding uncertainty, citing $5B revenue loss.