Florida Governor Calls for Special Session on Homestead Property Tax Exemption

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on May 27 called for a special legislative session to consider exempting homeowners from property taxes on their primary residence. He said he would sign a proclamation requiring lawmakers to convene in Tallahassee beginning June 1 to discuss the "Save Our Homes" proposal.

"Taxing something that you own repeatedly, which is a property tax, is the worst way to do taxation," DeSantis said at a news conference. He added that the goal is to allow homestead property owners to vote on a measure that would directly affect their finances.

The plan would phase in the exemption and create a state trust fund to offset revenue losses for local governments. Because it would amend the Florida Constitution, passage by the Republican-controlled Senate and House would still require voter approval in November.

Property tax collections by local governments have risen from $32 billion to $60 billion over seven years, according to the governor's office. The proposal would limit the use of property taxes to core services such as public safety, education, infrastructure, and natural resources.

New residents would need to maintain residency for up to five years before qualifying for the homestead exemption. DeSantis's term ends January 5, 2027.

Response Florida House Democratic Leader Fentrice

Driskell said eliminating property taxes would have "devastating consequences" for county budgets. She stated the focus should remain on affordability without harming working families, small businesses, or local services funded by property taxes. State Sen.