How Byron Donalds Plans to Upend Florida’s Property Tax System
Summary
Florida voters approved Amendment 3 on November 3, 2026, changing property tax exemptions and limits on assessed-value increases. Governor-elect Byron Donalds has supported the measure and said he plans to pursue broader property tax and fee reforms, while critics warn that lower revenues could strain local government services.Key Facts
- Amendment 3 received about 62 percent of the vote, exceeding Florida’s 60 percent threshold for constitutional amendments.
- The amendment raises the homestead exemption for non-school property taxes to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, with inflation adjustments beginning in 2029.
- People who move to Florida after December 31, 2026, will receive a smaller homestead exemption of up to $50,000 until they have lived in the state for five years.
- For non-homestead properties, the amendment lowers the annual cap on increases in assessed value for non-school taxes from 10 percent to 5 percent.
- The amendment requires counties and municipalities to use property tax revenue for specified purposes, including public safety, education, infrastructure, flood control, and government operations.
- Donalds supported Amendment 3 and said he would bring proposals for broader reform of Florida property taxes and fees to the state’s Taxation and Budget Reform Commission.
- Critics say the changes could reduce local government revenue and affect services such as public safety, parks, and infrastructure.
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