In the Nov. 3 election, Floridians will vote on Amendment 3 to the state constitution, among other items. It concerns property taxes and could have a major effect on both homeowners’ bills and the budgets of cities and counties. To take effect, it must be supported by at least 60% of voters.
What Amendment 3 Changes
- A higher exemption for a primary residence (homestead exemption) – for non-school taxes, it would rise to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, and then be adjusted for inflation. The current maximum exemption is $51,411.
- A lower cap on assessment growth for property that is not a primary residence (such as second homes and rental properties) – from 10% to 5% a year.
- Limits on local governments – property tax revenue would have to go primarily toward public safety, education, infrastructure and similar purposes.
- Separate rules for new residents – people who were not Florida residents by Dec. 31, 2026, would receive the increased exemption only starting in the fifth year they are eligible for it.
The changes would take effect Jan. 1, 2027. For example, for a home with an assessed value of $300,000 and an exemption of $250,000, non-school taxes would be calculated on only $50,000. School taxes would still be calculated on the full amount.
Arguments For and Against
The amendment is supported by, among others, Miami-Dade County property appraiser Tomás Regalado, Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz and Republican gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds. Supporters stress that it is about relief for homeowners at a time of high living costs.
Opposing it are the Florida Sheriffs Association, which warns of the consequences for funding of public services, and Democratic gubernatorial candidate David Jolly. Local governments are tallying their losses – Coral Springs, for example, estimates a drop in revenue of about $14.5 million in 2028 and $26.8 million in 2029, which could mean cuts to parks, infrastructure or social programs.
In an NBC6/Telemundo 51 poll, 55% of respondents supported the amendment – less than the required 60%. Estimated savings for your own home can be checked using the state’s Save Our Homes calculator.
Source: NBC 6 South Florida
Klaudiusz Nowak
Source: Słoneczne Radio
