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Florida Kicks Off 2026 Session With Homestead Tax Push

The fight over homestead tax cuts hinges on crafting ballot language voters can approve.

Overview

  • Lawmakers opened the 60-day session as Gov. Ron DeSantis delivered his final State of the State and urged property-tax relief for primary residences.
  • The House has advanced multiple ballot-ready ideas, including raising the homestead exemption to $200,000 and options to reduce non-school property taxes.
  • Senate leaders signaled a slower approach but said they want voters to see “meaningful property tax relief,” with details still to be ironed out.
  • Local governments warn the proposals could cost them billions and threaten funding for police, fire, and other services, pressing lawmakers on how to replace lost revenue.
  • Any overhaul requires a constitutional amendment with 60% voter approval, as separate plans proceed for an April redistricting special session and insurance rates dip at Citizens.