Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has emphasized the urgent need to overhaul the state's property tax system, warning that rising tax burdens, fueled by increased home valuations, are driving residents out of their homes. "We cannot allow our citizens to be displaced from their homes due to property taxes," DeSantis declared during a public appearance on Tuesday. His wife, Casey DeSantis, shared portions of the governor's remarks on the social media platform X. He cautioned about the impact of "unrealized increases" in property values, which result in higher tax bills without homeowners having sold or gained income from that appreciation. "I don't want people being driven out of their homes because of property taxes," DeSantis stated, advocating for immediate tax relief for primary homeowners.
DeSantis's Vision for Tax Relief and Reform
This stance from DeSantis isn't new. Last May, the governor proposed a $1,000 rebate for homeowners in 2025 as part of a broader strategy aimed at possibly eliminating property taxes in Florida altogether, a move that would require a constitutional amendment approved by at least 60% of voters. "When do you actually own your home, free and clear?" questioned the Republican leader, who has likened the current system to "paying perpetual rent to the state."
Projected Tax Increases and Property Value Trends
Local officials have noted that the projected tax increases for 2025 are expected to be more moderate than in previous years. Homeowners began receiving "TRIM" notices in August, outlining the estimated value of their properties and tentative tax amounts. In areas like Miami-Dade County, some regions have seen increases as high as 9%, according to local media reports. County Property Appraiser Tomás Regalado explained that the rise is largely due to market value increases rather than changes in millage rates.
Political Opposition and Legislative Challenges
DeSantis's proposal faces opposition in the state legislature, particularly from House Speaker Daniel Pérez, who criticized the rebate plan as a one-time gesture lacking structural impact. "Sending $1,000 checks is not tax relief. It's a giveaway, like those Biden issued during the pandemic," Pérez remarked in May. Nonetheless, DeSantis has defended the program as an initial step toward a deeper transformation and has urged lawmakers to draft a constitutional amendment appealing to voters, aiming for its inclusion on the 2026 ballot.
Broader Fiscal and Legal Reforms
The state government has also advanced other fiscal and legal reforms. In July, the 2% state tax on commercial leases was eliminated, reducing state and local revenue by an estimated $1.1 billion for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Additionally, DeSantis has championed new homeowner protection laws and condo sector reforms following the 2021 collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside. Florida continues to solidify its reputation as a low-tax state with policies designed to attract new residents and protect permanent homeowners, according to DeSantis. "I want Canadian and Brazilian tourists to subsidize the state, ensuring permanent residents pay less tax," the governor asserted, emphasizing that tax benefits should be directed solely at Florida's inhabitants.
Frequently Asked Questions about Florida's Property Tax Reform
What is Ron DeSantis proposing regarding property taxes?
Ron DeSantis is advocating for a reform of the property tax system in Florida to prevent residents from being displaced due to rising tax burdens. This includes proposals like a $1,000 rebate for homeowners and potentially eliminating property taxes altogether, pending voter approval.
How have property values and taxes changed in Florida recently?
Recent projections indicate that tax increases for 2025 will be more moderate than in previous years. However, areas such as Miami-Dade have experienced property value increases as high as 9%, leading to higher tax assessments.
What challenges does DeSantis's tax proposal face in the legislature?
DeSantis's tax reform proposal faces resistance, notably from House Speaker Daniel Pérez, who argues that the $1,000 rebates are merely temporary reliefs without addressing structural issues of the tax system.