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FLORIDA - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has rejected the Florida House’s new multi-proposal property tax reform plan, calling it ineffective and potentially confusing for voters.
Speaking at a press conference in Tampa, DeSantis criticized the House’s package of eight proposals, seven of which are constitutional amendments, set to appear on the 2026 ballot.
The measures aim to lower or cap local property taxes through various approaches, including eliminating certain non-school homestead taxes, adding exemptions for seniors and insured homeowners, and limiting how quickly property values can rise.
DeSantis argued that presenting multiple ballot measures would divide support and make it harder for any single proposal to achieve the required 60 percent voter approval.
He instead called for one clearly written amendment focused solely on providing tax relief for Florida homeowners.
The governor said his administration is drafting a single amendment centered on homesteaded properties, emphasizing that Floridians who own their homes should not face ongoing property taxes.
House Speaker Danny Perez defended the House’s approach, saying the goal is to give voters more control over the state’s tax structure.
He criticized DeSantis for dismissing the proposal and suggested the governor may be planning to eliminate all property taxes, including those that fund schools.
DeSantis acknowledged the challenges of developing a plan that offers relief without harming local government budgets or essential services.
His administration is expected to release its version of the property tax reform proposal ahead of the 2026 ballot deadline.