Governor Calls Special Session on Property Taxes Beginning Monday, June 1

Governor DeSantis has called a Special Session on property taxes beginning Monday, June 1, with the goal of advancing a proposal that could be placed on the November ballot for voter approval. This Special Session is expected to focus on the Governor’s proposal to amend Florida’s property tax structure.

Watch the Governor's Press Conference │ View Memo

Of note, the Governor’s proposal includes an increase in the homestead exemption to $250,000, which would eliminate property taxes for approximately 60% of Florida homeowners. We are still waiting on the proposed bill language.

Below is a graphic shared by the Governor’s office.

If passed by the Legislature and approved by the voters, this would have significant implications for municipal revenues and the services cities provide.

Property taxes account for approximately 43% of municipal general fund revenue and remain the most stable, locally controlled funding source for Florida’s cities. Any changes to this system – particularly without a clear, sustainable replacement – could impact core services such as police, fire, emergency response, infrastructure, and parks.

Contact your state legislators and urge them to vote NO on proposed property tax changes. House Contacts │ Senate Contacts

It is critical that legislators understand the real-world impact these proposals could have on your city’s budget, services, and residents.

If you’ve engaged a contract lobbyist, now is the time to use them.

Join the Legislative Monday Morning Webinar at 9:00 a.m. on June 1 for more information from the League’s legislative team.

The Florida League of Cities is closely monitoring the session and will continue to keep members informed as developments unfold.

Resources

The League has developed a Property Tax Toolkit with ready-to-use messaging materials, talking points (available in English, Spanish, and Creole), city-level data packets, shareable videos, and key messages to help you communicate clearly about property taxes with your community and legislators.

Please contact Charles Chapman with any questions.