On Tuesday, Floridians headed to the polls to make decisions on three state constitutional amendments and numerous local proposals across various counties and municipalities. These elections were also pivotal in selecting the governor and other significant public offices.
The most notable outcome at the state level was the approval of Amendment 3. This amendment was the only one among the three constitutional proposals to surpass the required 60% threshold to amend the Florida Constitution.
Championed by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, Amendment 3 garnered 61.99% of the vote, with 4,917,482 in favor and 3,015,840 opposed, according to preliminary figures from the Florida Division of Elections. It represents a major tax reform on housing, marking the most significant change in recent years.
The amendment increases the property tax exemption for primary residences, raising it from the current $50,000 to $150,000 starting January 1, 2027, and then to $250,000 from January 1, 2028, with future adjustments tied to inflation.
Importantly, taxes funding public school districts will remain unaffected by this reform and will continue to be applied as before.
Florida TaxWatch estimates suggest that eligible homeowners could save approximately $1,035 annually in 2027 and $2,085 in 2028, assuming a non-school tax rate of 10.5 mills, which is representative of the state average.
However, this measure comes with a significant downside: a substantial reduction in revenue for local governments. Legislative projections estimate losses of around $4.6 billion in the fiscal year 2027-2028 and $8.4 billion in 2028-2029.
Specifically, Miami-Dade County could lose between $385.8 million and $696.7 million annually, potentially impacting services such as fire departments, libraries, roads, parks, and public transportation, as warned by county officials.
Rejected Amendments and Local Highlights
Both Amendment 1 and Amendment 2 failed to pass. Amendment 1, which sought to increase the constitutional cap on the state's budget stabilization fund from 10% to 25%, was rejected with 59.10% voting against it.
Amendment 2, concerning tax exemptions for equipment and goods used in agricultural properties and agritourism activities, received 58.22% support—a simple majority, but not enough to meet the 60% threshold required for constitutional changes.
In Miami-Dade, six out of seven local referendums received approval, including the renewal of a one-mill school tax with 81.8% support, expected to generate about $569.5 million annually for public schools in the county.
The city of Miami saw voter approval, with 60.94% in favor, for issuing up to $450 million in bonds to upgrade police, fire, and rescue facilities.
Meanwhile, in St. Petersburg, located in Pinellas County, 73.94% of voters endorsed issuing up to $600 million in bonds for flood protection, drainage, and improvements to water and sewer systems.
In Hillsborough County (Tampa), all three local proposals passed, including the direct election of the school superintendent with 58.10% support, scheduled for its inaugural election in 2028, and a ten-year renewal of the half-cent sales tax for school facility upgrades.
In Broward, voters renewed the one-mill school tax with 66.56% backing, expected to generate approximately $358 million annually for teachers, school security, and student mental health through the 2030-31 school year.
In Duval County (Jacksonville), nearly 76% of voters renewed the one-mill school tax for four years, covering the period from July 1, 2027, to June 30, 2031.
The phased implementation of property tax reductions for primary residences will begin in 2027. The actual impact will depend on the taxable value of each property and the exemptions applicable to the homeowner.
Key Questions About Florida's Recent Election Outcomes
What was the most significant outcome of the Florida state elections?
The approval of Amendment 3, which represents a major housing tax reform, was the most significant outcome, as it was the only amendment to surpass the 60% threshold required to amend the Florida Constitution.
What impact will Amendment 3 have on property taxes in Florida?
Amendment 3 increases the property tax exemption for primary residences, starting with an increase to $150,000 in 2027, and then to $250,000 in 2028, with future adjustments tied to inflation.
What were the financial implications for local governments due to Amendment 3?
Local governments face significant revenue reductions, with projections estimating losses of $4.6 billion in 2027-2028 and $8.4 billion in 2028-2029.
How did local referendums fare in Miami-Dade County?
In Miami-Dade County, six out of seven local referendums were approved, including the renewal of a one-mill school tax and bonds for infrastructure improvements.