The Florida House on Thursday approved a proposed constitutional amendment that would phase out non-school property taxes on homesteaded properties, sending the measure to the Senate for consideration.
Lawmakers voted 80-30 to pass House Joint Resolution 203. The proposal would eliminate non-school ad valorem taxes levied on homestead property, which refers to a taxpayer’s primary residence that qualifies for Florida’s homestead exemption. Property taxes imposed by school districts would remain in place under the proposal.
If adopted, the measure would require the Legislature to implement a phased reduction of non-school property taxes on homesteads through future legislation. The measure applies only to homesteaded residential property and would not eliminate property taxes on non-homesteaded residential property, commercial property, or other taxable real estate.
Local governments and special districts currently levy non-school property taxes that fund general operations and services.
During floor debate, the House approved an amendment modifying the implementation schedule, accelerating the proposed phaseout compared with earlier versions of the resolution. Specific timelines and administrative details would be established in subsequent implementing legislation if the amendment is ultimately approved.
Legislative staff analyses discussed during debate estimated the proposal could reduce local government revenue by billions of dollars annually once fully implemented. Local governments rely on property tax revenue to fund services including law enforcement, fire protection, transportation infrastructure and other operations.
Because the measure proposes an amendment to the Florida Constitution, it does not require the governor’s approval. The proposal must be approved by three-fifths of both the House and Senate before it can appear on a statewide ballot. If placed before voters, the amendment would require at least 60% approval to take effect.
