Overview

• Local government groups told lawmakers that alleged “waste, fraud, and abuse” claims are overstated, as the Governor’s office outlined its DOGE efficiency effort to the committee.
• Economists briefed members on wide county disparities from Save Our Homes and portability, including reductions averaging under $17,000 in Union County versus about $580,000 in Monroe County.
• Property taxes generate roughly $55 billion statewide, including about $19 billion from homesteads, and provide about 47% of public school funding with large county-by-county variation.
• Options under study include raising the homestead exemption for non-school taxes up to $500,000, capping assessments, rolling back rates, prohibiting homestead foreclosures for tax debt, and consolidating small municipal services.
• Replacement ideas such as transaction and tourism taxes are in play, Republicans cite efficiency gains, Democrats warn about risks to police, fire, and schools, and draft proposals are expected by November or December for potential 2026 ballot placement requiring 60% voter approval.