Governor Ron DeSantis is ramping up efforts to eliminate property taxes, expressing frustration with what he considers lackluster measures proposed by state lawmakers. During a campaign event at the University of South Florida, DeSantis argued that property owners are unfairly treated, suggesting they are paying “rent to the government” even after their homes are fully paid off. He emphasized this point, saying, “It’s almost like they have to pay rent to the government, just to be able to enjoy their property. That’s wrong. We need to do something about it.”
The divide between DeSantis and House Republicans appears to be widening. His tweet urging “All 50 states must abolish property taxes” highlights his commitment to a full abolition of property taxes on homesteaded properties, which contrasts sharply with the House’s proposals. House Speaker Daniel Perez has pushed back against DeSantis’ hardline stance, describing the governor’s comments as “milquetoast” and insisting that the House’s strategy is not modest, as the governor claims. The Speaker stated that the proposed legislation aims to eliminate all non-school homestead property taxes, challenging DeSantis to come up with a viable alternative for funding public schools amidst this shift.
Florida’s property tax situation is not merely about increasing home values. DeSantis is advocating for a constitutional amendment that would wipe out property taxes completely. However, given the necessity of a 60% approval threshold for constitutional amendments and recent polling indicating only 49% of likely voters support the idea, the task is steep. DeSantis believes that multiple proposals would confuse voters, potentially dooming any chance for reform. He contends, “Not one proposal that would get people excited about it.”
DeSantis is pushing for a simple and clear amendment to appear on the 2026 ballot. The concern surrounding multiple proposals is significant, as they could dilute voter support. According to DeSantis, “That is a way to kill any type of getting property tax reform.”
The House’s proposals include a variety of approaches, from expanded exemptions to gradual phase-outs. Yet DeSantis has brushed aside these incremental measures, labeling them as inadequate. Facing opposition from within the legislature, he maintains a vision of a unified and decisive path towards eliminating property taxes.
Economic forecasts warn about the broader implications of such tax reforms. Cutting property taxes could leave local governments short by billions, creating a ripple effect that threatens essential services. Esteban Leonardo Santis of the Florida Policy Institute highlighted the dire situation for rural areas, stating, “To go from here to zero without a reliable replacement will devastate small counties.”
While DeSantis suggests utilizing tourist taxes to offset lost revenue, specifics remain vague. His philosophy seems to rest on the notion that “we’re a destination state. Let tourists pay more,” as opposed to burdening long-term homeowners. However, without clear policies or financing strategies, skeptics remain unconvinced of his plan’s viability.
Despite varied opinions, the intricacies of Florida’s taxation system cannot be ignored. Some lawmakers attribute the housing affordability crisis more to rising insurance costs than property taxes. Representative Jim Mooney noted, “We don’t get a lot of complaints about property taxes… We get a lot of complaints about insurance.” This introduces a complex layer to the discussion surrounding property taxes.
The legislative clock is ticking. If lawmakers wish to present amendments for the 2026 ballot, consensus on the language must be established by the end of the 2025 session. A three-fifths majority is essential to pass these amendments, which operate outside of DeSantis’ direct influence, further complicating matters.
As tension rises, the exchanges between DeSantis and legislative leaders are becoming increasingly personal. Perez has labeled DeSantis as “small and petty,” claiming the governor has rebuffed attempts at dialogue over the issue. “I have personally reached out to the Governor to discuss the issue,” Perez stated, emphasizing his intent for cooperative discussion.
Local officials also voice concerns over the potential fallout of eliminating property taxes. Jessica Ward, vice chair of Franklin County, expressed apprehension about her county’s ability to survive without the necessary revenue. “In a bad storm season, we could lose everything,” she warned. Similarly, Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey underscored the risks to community services, saying, “This will wipe out parks and recreation. Neighborhood affairs. We’ll have nothing left but cops and asphalt.”
As state lawmakers navigate this complex landscape, the balance between fiscal reality and political aspirations remains precarious. DeSantis’ bold vision seeks to shift the tax burden from homeowners, but achieving that goal is fraught with challenges. Whether he can galvanize the electorate around this sweeping reform will be tested in the upcoming elections.
As DeSantis succinctly pointed out this week, “[People] have their homes paid off and they bought it 30 years ago for a certain amount. Now they’re being told it’s worth so much more and they have to pony up more and more money.” The key question remains whether voters will agree with his radical approach and support such a significant change come 2026.
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