Overview
- Amendment 3 would raise the non‑school homestead exemption to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, cut the non‑homestead assessment cap from 10% to 5%, add a waiting period for new residents, and enshrine rules about local revenue use in the constitution.
- State economists estimate the change would eventually strip about $11.86 billion a year from county and city budgets, and the Legislature’s fiscal analysis projects multi‑billion dollar cuts in the first two years.
- County officials this week published local loss estimates that range from millions to tens of millions annually, with Alachua County projecting roughly $49 million a year and Gainesville about $12.6 million a year.
- Sheriffs, police chiefs and firefighter groups warn the revenue losses would force cuts to staffing, slower 911 response and reduced services, while supporters argue it will give homeowners tax relief and Gov. Ron DeSantis has urged a yes vote without detailing replacement funding.
- The pro‑Amendment campaign has a major boost from Florida Realtors’ $10 million donation and the Republican Party’s endorsement, but a St. Pete Polls survey shows 45% support and 25% undecided, leaving passage dependent on late messaging and turnout.