TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Florida Legislature started a special legislative session on Monday in Tallahassee to consider Gov. Ron DeSantis’s proposed property tax cut on homesteads.
On May 27, DeSantis called for lawmakers to pass a ballot measure to raise the state’s $50,000 homestead exemptions to $250,000.
“With five-days notice and a 72-hour session, this legislature is being asked to dramatically reshape our entire state financial landscape,” Florida Sen. Lori Berman said during a news conference.
Democrats have concerns about local governments’ services, and public schools suffering budget shortfalls as a result of the revenue loss.
“They’re still getting a lot of money, way more than they did seven years ago,” DeSantis said on May 27 about property values increasing.
The Florida Senate Appropriations Committee approved an amendment on Monday to secure funding for the state’s public school districts.
“I personally would like to see a school carve out,” Florida Rep. Alex Rizo said.
DeSantis suggested that the exemption not apply to homeowners who move to Florida after November until they have established residency for five years.
The plan would include a constitutional amendment on the November ballot. It has to be approved by at least 60% of the state’s voters.
Torres contributed to this report from Miami.
Copyright 2026 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.