Florida voters will decide on Nov. 3 on three amendments to the state constitution, including Amendment 3, which would change the property tax system. Like any constitutional change, it requires the support of at least 60% of those voting.
Amendment 3 would raise the exemption from non-school taxes to $150,000 in 2027 and to $250,000 in 2028. The additional exemption would apply only to the portion of the bill that does not go to schools (about 60% of the bill, according to Florida TaxWatch), and only to permanently occupied homes. Second homes, rental properties and commercial properties would not benefit.
The amendment also lowers the annual cap on growth in the assessed value of properties other than homesteads, such as second homes, commercial buildings and rental units, from 10% to 5% starting Jan. 1, 2027. New Florida residents who settle in the state after Jan. 1, 2027, would have to wait five years for the higher exemption. Property tax revenue could be spent only on the listed purposes, including public safety, education and infrastructure.
Supporters say the measure would bring relief to homeowners struggling with rising costs, while critics warn that local governments could lose billions of dollars. Local 10 reports that supporters include Tomas Regalado, the Miami-Dade County property appraiser, and Miami-Dade County Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz. Opponents include Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. The Florida Sheriffs Association has also come out against the amendment, warning of the consequences for public safety funding.
According to a Telemundo 51/NBC6 poll, 55% of respondents say they support the amendment. Most available polls show results below the required 60%, and only one exceeds that threshold. The current rules remain in effect until the amendment is approved by at least 60% of voters. If it passes, the first changes would take effect on Jan. 1, 2027. Local 10 says it will report results from the South Florida region after 7 p.m.
Source: Local 10
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