DeSantis Declares War on Property Taxes
During a recent appearance at the second annual State Freedom Caucus Summit in Dallas, Texas, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis reaffirmed his commitment to eliminating property taxes for homeowners. He is pushing for a constitutional amendment to place the issue on the November 2026 ballot for Florida voters to decide.
DeSantis's case against property taxes
- DeSantis has long argued that paying property taxes is akin to "paying rent to the government" for a home you own.
- He argues that this is an extension of the state's efforts to curb spending at the local and state level.
- The governor believes that removing property taxes would put a "thumb on the scale" in favor of individual homeownership over investors.
- Rising property values have led to soaring property tax bills for homeowners, even with homestead exemptions, while their incomes have not kept pace.
Debate over the proposal
- Fiscal impact: Critics, including the Florida Policy Institute, argue that eliminating property taxes would weaken local governments and leave a $43 billion gap in revenue. Local governments rely on property taxes to fund essential services such as police, fire departments, and schools.
- Alternative funding: To make up for the lost revenue, some local officials suggest they would need to raise other taxes or fees, and taxpayers aren't ready for that burden. Others have suggested higher tourism taxes, which would also impact residents who spend money in tourist areas.
- Alternative tax cuts: Florida's Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia and House Speaker Daniel Perez have debated alternative tax cuts, including a $5 billion sales tax cut, which DeSantis argues benefits tourists too much.
Path forward
- To abolish property taxes, Florida would need to pass a constitutional amendment with a 60% voter approval.
- A Florida House select committee convened in May 2025 to examine the issue and is scheduled to meet again in late September to continue discussions.
- DeSantis stated that he has discussed the constitutional amendment with legislators and that they are "excited about being able to do it".
