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DeSantis Proposes $1,000 Property Tax Rebate, Intensifies Tax Relief Debate in Florida

The Florida governor's plan to prioritize property tax relief over a sales tax cut faces opposition as lawmakers weigh the fiscal impact and long-term implications.

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Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks about his proposal for Florida to become the first state to abolish property taxes during a news conference at the Florida REALTORS headquarters in Orlando on Monday, March 31, 2025. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)
A map of the states trying to cut or eliminate property taxes this year. In the states in red, legislators have introduced bills that would abolish property taxes; in the state in darker orange, legislation has already been passed to cut property taxes; and in the states in light orange, lawmakers are currently trying to cut property taxes.

Overview

  • Gov. Ron DeSantis has introduced a $1,000 property tax rebate for homeowners, which must gain legislative approval, as an initial step toward his broader goal of eliminating property taxes.
  • The proposal contrasts with Florida House Speaker Danny Perez’s plan to reduce the state sales tax from 6% to 5.25%, with both initiatives targeting $5 billion in tax relief.
  • DeSantis argues that property tax relief should take precedence, emphasizing its direct benefit to Floridians, while criticizing sales tax cuts for also aiding tourists and part-time residents.
  • Analysts warn that eliminating property taxes could strain funding for essential public services, such as schools and emergency services, and require alternative revenue sources to replace $50 billion annually.
  • Concerns persist about the interplay between high property insurance costs and housing affordability, with critics noting that these expenses could offset any financial relief for homeowners.