TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — A proposed change to Florida’s property tax system headed to voters in November is drawing growing opposition from public safety groups who warn it could reshape how local services are funded.
Amendment 3 grew out of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ push to provide property tax relief, but lawmakers ultimately sent a more limited version to the ballot than what the governor originally proposed. The version voters will see would gradually expand Florida’s homestead property tax exemption while limiting how counties and cities can spend property tax revenue.
“What they did, I think is good for taxpayers. I’m going to vote for it. I think it’s positive in terms of getting affordability and relief…But ours was part of a larger vision and I think it would have really been something that would have been historic,” DeSantis said.
Opponents argue the central issue is not whether Floridians deserve tax relief, but what could happen to the local services funded by property taxes.
“Our local communities are going to no longer be able to fund the programs that they have chosen to pay for. And this amendment would take away their freedom to be able to do that,” said Jackson Peel, Communications Director for Save Our Services.
Those concerns are now being echoed by major public safety organizations across the state. Last week, the Florida Professional Firefighters said they cannot support the amendment. The Florida Sheriffs Association also announced its opposition and concern, saying “it could allow Tallahassee to control local budgets, create longer law enforcement response times, and limit communities’ abilities to provide road repairs and stormwater removal.”
Local leaders have also begun preparing for what the amendment could mean. During a June Leon County Commission meeting, leaders called the proposal a potential fiscal crisis, saying it could significantly reduce the county’s primary source of revenue.
“The proposed constitutional amendment will result in a historic reduction to the county’s primary revenue source and may result in a historic change in the very role and function of county government,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent Long.
Leon County leaders said losing that revenue could force difficult decisions about services including emergency services, libraries, parks, and programs for veterans and kids.
“Everyone should take the time to find out what programs their local taxes are paying for and to make sure you’re okay with those going away before you vote yes. The ballot summary that you’re going to see in, on election day is not going to give you the full details,” Peel said.
Amendment 3 will appear on Florida’s November general election ballot, where it will need at least 60 percent voter approval to become part of the state constitution.