Both the State House and Governor Ron DeSantis agree that property taxes are too high, but they fundamentally differ on the solution.
This is one of the most important and complex legislative discussions in Florida right now. Both the State House and Governor Ron DeSantis agree that property taxes (known as property taxes) are too high, but they fundamentally differ on the solution.
Here’s a breakdown of the House’s package and where the differences with the governor lie.
1. The State House’s Reform Package
Florida’s State House, led by Speaker Daniel Pérez, has not proposed a single solution but rather a package of several measures aimed at easing the tax burden.
The House’s approach is to offer “options” to voters, many of which would need to be approved as constitutional amendments on the 2026 ballot.
The key proposals discussed in the House include:
- Elimination for Seniors: One of the most prominent proposals is a plan to completely eliminate property taxes for seniors in the state.
- New $100,000 Exemption: A measure (such as HJR 357) has been debated to create a new $100,000 exemption applicable to all real estate properties, not just primary residences (homestead).
- Limits on Local Governments: Another proposal (such as HB 215) seeks to require a “supermajority” vote (two-thirds or more) from local governments (cities and counties) to approve any increase in property tax rates.
- Inflation Adjustment (Already in Effect): A related measure (Amendment 5), which was already approved, took effect in 2025 and adjusts annually for inflation the portion of the homestead exemption applied to property values between $50,000 and $75,000.
The House’s overall plan is to let voters decide in 2026 which of these measures they prefer, rather than imposing a single solution.
2. The Differences with Governor DeSantis
The differences between the House and Governor DeSantis are significant and focus on the method and scope of tax relief.
Governor DeSantis’ Position
Governor DeSantis has taken a much more drastic stance: he is pushing for the total elimination of property taxes in Florida.
- The Goal: DeSantis’ long-term goal is to completely eliminate reliance on property taxes to fund local governments (schools, police, fire departments).
- The Replacement: To replace the billions of dollars generated by these taxes, DeSantis’ proposal would involve a massive increase in the state sales tax. Analyses suggest that to cover the shortfall, Florida’s sales tax would need to double, rising from the current 6% to potentially 12%.
The Core of the Disagreement
The main conflict arose in early 2025 when both sides presented opposing visions on how to implement tax cuts:
- Focus on Property Tax (DeSantis): DeSantis proposed short-term relief through a direct $1,000 rebate for homeowners with a homestead exemption. His argument is that tax relief should focus exclusively on Florida residents who own property.
- Focus on Sales Tax (House): In response, House Speaker Daniel Pérez proposed a permanent reduction in the state sales tax (for example, from 6% to 5.25%).
The governor harshly criticized the House’s proposal, arguing that reducing the sales tax benefits everyone, including tourists and part-time residents, diluting the relief for permanent “Floridians” who, he claims, are the ones who need help with property taxes.
In summary, the difference is as follows:
- The House (Pérez) prefers a multi-pronged approach (exemptions for seniors, limits on governments, new deductions) and is wary of a massive increase in the sales tax.
- Governor DeSantis seeks a radical solution: eliminating property taxes entirely, funded by a sharp increase in the sales tax, arguing that this directly benefits Florida homeowners.
