Governor DeSantis Announces Special Session on Property Taxes for Monday

In an unexpected turn of events, Florida’s lawmakers are gearing up for an extended stay in Tallahassee. Governor Ron DeSantis has summoned a special legislative session to tackle a property tax amendment aimed at making its way onto the November ballot.

This special session is scheduled to kick off on Monday, reflecting the urgency and importance of the matter at hand. During the regular legislative session, multiple proposals to revamp local property taxes were floated but ultimately stalled in committee discussions.

Governor DeSantis has been vocal about his intent to initiate significant changes to the existing tax framework. He proposes an increase in the homestead property tax exemption starting at $250,000, with plans for further growth in the exemption down the line.

For any changes to take effect, the proposed legislation must secure a spot on the November ballot and earn the approval of at least 60% of voters. This presents a challenging yet crucial hurdle in the legislative process.

Historically, DeSantis has advocated for either the elimination or reduction of non-school property taxes. However, the final shape of any amendment will rest in the hands of the legislature, which has the task of crafting a proposal that balances the governor’s vision with legislative consensus.

In the past, the governor has called for eliminating non-school property taxes, or at least a reduction in the taxes. Regardless of what the governor wants, it will be up to the legislature to decide what the final amendment or amendments look like.

Local governments say such a move would decimate their ability to maintain services ranging from building and maintaining roads to police, fire, and EMS services, though the governor says any cuts to property taxes would not hurt first responders.

Lawmakers are currently in Tallahassee for a special session on the state budget. A vote is set for Friday.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.