Florida Amendment 3: How Proposed Property Tax Changes Could Impact Pasco County Services

Pasco County residents face a significant decision this election cycle with Florida’s proposed Property Tax Amendment 3. This amendment could change how Pasco County funds, operates, and plans resources across the community, specifically impacting services in unincorporated Pasco County.

Pasco County does not support or oppose any constitutional amendment or ballot measure. The county provides information solely to clarify how the proposed amendment could change the way Pasco County uses property tax dollars to fund services if Florida voters approve it. Florida property tax laws will only change if at least 60% of Florida voters approve the amendment.

Pasco County's Budget: Restricted vs. Non-Restricted Funds

Pasco County’s budget consists of two main types of funds: Restricted and Non-Restricted. Restricted funds are earmarked for specific services. These include Clean Water, Flood Control, Solid Waste, Environmental Land Management, and Building Safety. The county can only spend this money on those designated services.

Non-restricted funds, which primarily come from property taxes, pay for other community services. These include Public Safety, Road Construction/Maintenance, Parks, Libraries, and Courts. The Board of County Commissioners directs how this money is spent.

How Amendment 3 Would Alter Pasco County's Funding for Key Services

Amendment 3 would specifically impact the non-restricted funds section of Pasco County's budget. This means services like Public Safety, Road Construction/Maintenance, Parks, Libraries, and Courts could see changes in their funding. The proposed amendment seeks to increase the homestead exemption for qualifying properties, reduce the assessment limitation for non-homestead properties, and establish additional residency-related provisions for certain homestead benefits.

Key Provisions of Proposed Amendment 3

The proposed constitutional amendment would make several changes to Florida’s property tax system. These changes include increasing the homestead exemption for qualifying properties, reducing the assessment limitation for non-homestead properties, and establishing additional residency-related provisions for certain homestead benefits.

Next Steps: When Voters Decide

Voters will decide on Amendment 3 in the upcoming election. Florida property tax laws will only change if at least 60% of Florida voters approve the amendment. Pasco County residents should review the proposed changes to understand the potential impact on local services funded by non-restricted property tax dollars.