🗞️ Florida House Votes to Phase Out Most Non-School Property Taxes for Homeowners
TALLAHASSEE, FL — In a decisive step that could reshape the financial landscape for millions of Floridians, the Florida House of Representatives on February 19, 2026 passed a joint resolution to gradually eliminate nearly all non-school property taxes for homestead homeowners over the next decade.
The measure, House Joint Resolution 203, now heads to the Florida Senate for further consideration and, if approved again, would go before voters as a constitutional amendment on the November 2026 ballot.
Sponsors of the proposal hail it as a long-term victory for property owners and a reinforcement of Florida’s taxpayer-friendly reputation. “This plan gives homeowners meaningful relief from onerous local taxes while allowing local governments time to adjust responsibly,” said Rep. Monique Miller (R-Palm Bay), the resolution’s sponsor.
Under the phased approach outlined in the bill text, the homestead exemption from non-school ad valorem taxes would increase by $100,000 annually for ten years, beginning in 2027. By 2037, homestead properties would be completely exempt from all local taxes that are not dedicated to public schools—potentially saving homeowners thousands of dollars each year.
The tax reform leverages the state constitution, which currently determines how property taxes are levied. Because the Florida Constitution governs ad valorem taxation, this initiative must be ratified by voters, requiring a 60% statewide approval threshold to take effect.
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“This is a rare chance to elevate the economic freedom of everyday Floridians,” said State Affairs Committee leadership during floor debate. Supporters argue that lower recurring costs of homeownership will increase mobility, attract retirees and remote workers, and improve financial stability for middle-income families.
Yet the proposal has drawn sharp criticism from local officials worried about the fiscal impact on city and county services. County leaders project significant annual revenue shortfalls—particularly in areas that rely heavily on property millage for non-school budgets. Local revenue supports roads, parks, libraries, sanitation, and other public infrastructure.
Critics also caution that reducing tax receipts could, paradoxically, lead to higher costs for non-homestead property owners. “If these revenue streams disappear, local governments may shift burdens through higher fees or increased assessments on commercial or rental properties,” noted one county finance official.
Proponents counter that local governments can tighten budgets, eliminate inefficiencies, and prioritize essential services. The resolution also contains protections for first responders: it would prohibit counties and municipalities from reducing total funding for law enforcement, firefighters, and other emergency services below 2024 or 2025 levels.
In recent months, Florida policymakers have debated multiple constitutional remedies to property taxes, including measures aimed at seniors, assessments, and exemptions tied to insurance coverage. HJR 203 is regarded as the most comprehensive of these, reflecting months of legislative groundwork and public input.
Governor Ron DeSantis has publicly advocated for major property tax relief, arguing that high local tax burdens disincentivize homeownership and drive families out of the state. In 2025, he proposed $1,000 individual tax rebates as a precursor to deeper reforms.
“Nobody should be afraid of keeping the home they’ve worked their whole life to own,” said DeSantis at a 2025 press event. “This Legislature is taking bold action to restore property rights to Florida families.”
While Republicans control a majority in both legislative chambers, opposition from municipal leaders and some Senate members suggests the path forward may be contested. Current Senate leadership has yet to publicly align with HJR 203’s timeline, and observers say negotiations will likely influence whether the resolution remains intact or is modified before the final vote.
If voters approve the amendment this November, the tax phase-out would begin in January 2027. Homeowners can expect their first incremental exemption increase effective that year, with future biennial tax bills reflecting greater savings.
Economists say the measure could have broader impacts on Florida’s housing market. Some analysts project that rising property values—spurred by lower carrying costs—could accompany the tax phase-out, potentially offsetting some of the relief through higher entry prices for buyers.
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📌 “Florida House passes historic property tax overhaul; homeowners could see major relief by 2030.” – X • @FLPoliticsNews
📌 “Watch this: Debate highlights on HJR 203 and Florida tax reform.” – X Video Clip • @TallahasseeTalk
📌 “Local leaders warn of budget squeeze if non-school taxes disappear.” – X • @FLCountyGov