TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Lawmakers in Tallahassee remain divided on how to address rising costs for residents, though Florida Democrats on Monday unveiled a three-part plan aimed at improving affordability.
What You Need To Know
The legislative session is about a month away, and lawmakers remain split on how to ease financial pressures for Floridians
Democrats rolled out a three-part affordability plan focused on insurance reform, accountability in state spending, and housing costs
Republican leaders are concentrating on property tax cuts
“It’s time for Tallahassee to stop ignoring the problem and instead it’s time to act,” said House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskel, D-Hillsborough County.
The proposal includes creating a national insurance compact that would form a multi-state risk pool for property insurance. Supporters say the idea could stabilize the market and help bring down premiums.
“Storms don’t check party registration; rising premiums hurt every family, every business, every community,” said State Rep. Kelly Skidmore, D-Palm Beach County.
Democrats are also calling for a full audit of state government, arguing that any wasteful spending uncovered should be redirected to residents through a tax rebate.
“Floridians shouldn’t be paying taxes to fund political stunts, sweetheart deals, and high-paying jobs for politically connected friends,” said State Sen. Lori Berman.
The final piece of the proposal would eliminate the state’s documentary stamp tax, which is charged on deeds, mortgages and promissory notes.
State Sen. Tracie Davis, D-Duval County, said the move is intended to make homeownership more attainable for first-time buyers.
“For first-time homebuyers, we want to make that moment when someone finally gets the keys to their first home a little more reachable,” she said.
Republican leaders are focusing their efforts on reducing property taxes, though they acknowledge the challenge of finding ways to compensate local governments for lost revenue.
“I’m optimistic that it’ll yield a good result for Floridians. But it’s not simple. It really isn’t simple,” said Senate President Ben Albritton, R-Bartow.