Florida residents enjoy the benefit of no state income tax, but a new proposal is reigniting the conversation about whether the Sunshine State could also eliminate property taxes.
State Sen. Jonathan Martin, who represents Lee County, has filed a bill that would explore replacing property taxes with increased taxes on consumable goods — such as food, household products, and other everyday purchases.
The idea sounds appealing; homeowners could save money, and eliminating property taxes might make Florida even more attractive to buyers. However, it raises big questions about how critical public services would be funded.
According to Florida revenue data, property taxes generated more than $2 billion in 2023. That money helps fund schools, infrastructure, emergency services and other essential programs. The state has not yet released revenue numbers for 2024.
The newly filed Senate bill would launch a study to examine the potential economic impact of eliminating property taxes. It would assess how the change could affect property values and economic growth and whether it would attract more businesses to the state.
Gov. Ron DeSantis voiced support for the proposal even before it was officially filed. In a post on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, he acknowledged that property taxes are determined at the local level but suggested a constitutional amendment could be a way forward.
"Property taxes are local, not state. So we'd need to do a constitutional amendment - which I would support - or even to reform/lower them...We should put the boldest amendment on the ballot that has a chance of getting that 60%," DeSantis wrote on X .
Right now, more than two dozen bills have been filed for the upcoming March legislative session that would provide property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, homes for the aging, and more.
If the bill passes, the study would begin after July 2025, with an estimated completion date in October.
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