Florida lawmakers weigh property tax relief as session moves forward

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Even before Florida’s legislative session began, lawmakers knew one of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ top priorities: property tax relief. 

Multiple proposals are now making their way through the Florida House and Senate. 

Several aim to cap how quickly property taxes can increase or expand homestead exemptions to reduce the amount homeowners pay. 

But some lawmakers say they’re still waiting for a comprehensive proposal from the governor that details how much relief he wants to provide and how it would be funded. 

“I don't know, I would hate to speak for the governor,” Rep. Yvette Benarroch, R-Marco Island, said. “The reality is he's the one that put this in the spotlight. We’re all waiting to see what his proposal is.” 

The governor has floated the idea of calling a special session focused solely on property tax relief, but no formal plans have been announced. 

At the same time, some lawmakers are grappling with how to offer tax breaks without cutting funding for essential services like schools, police departments, and fire rescue. 

In Lee County alone, property taxes generated more than $500 million last year — money that supports local government operations and public safety. 

Benarroch said protecting those services must come first. 

“I’m not willing to negotiate with public safety and the services we all depend on,” she said. “The first thing we need to look at is local budgets — how the money is being spent.” 

If lawmakers ultimately agree on a broad property tax overhaul, major changes would likely go before voters on a statewide ballot, giving Floridians the final say. 

WINK News will keep you updated as proposals continue to take shape.