Florida governor, lawmakers propose six-year plan to phase out property taxes

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and legislative allies are promoting a six-year plan that could significantly reduce or eliminate major portions of property taxes across the state, according to state officials.

The proposal would require a statewide referendum that must reach the ballot before August deadlines, state leaders said.

The initiative comes as DeSantis has signed well over 100 measures into law this year, including legislation to substantially increase the homestead property tax exemption starting in 2027 and 2028.

The property tax phase-out plan has prompted concerns from fiscal analysts and local government officials about how the state would replace billions of dollars in lost revenue that currently funds counties, cities and school districts, according to local officials.

Property taxes represent a major funding source for local governments and school systems throughout Florida. The proposed elimination or significant reduction of these taxes would require the state to identify alternative revenue sources to maintain services at the local level.

State leaders have not yet detailed how they would compensate for the revenue loss if voters approve the referendum. The multi-year timeline would give officials time to develop replacement funding mechanisms.

The referendum requirement means Florida voters would have the final say on whether to proceed with the property tax changes. State officials are working to meet August ballot deadlines to place the measure before voters.

The property tax proposal represents one of several major policy shifts advancing through Florida's state government. Officials recently tightened SNAP eligibility rules set to take effect in 2026, reshaping safety-net access for low-income residents.

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has escalated a high-profile tech investigation by issuing new criminal subpoenas to Roblox over allegations the gaming platform is not adequately preventing child predators from targeting children.

Local governments have also been active on policy changes. Winter Park recently advanced ordinances to limit protests at public facilities such as libraries and event centers.

The property tax initiative follows the already-enacted increases to homestead exemptions scheduled for 2027 and 2028. Those measures will provide some tax relief before any potential phase-out would take effect under the six-year roadmap.

Questions remain about implementation details and the fiscal impact on local governments that depend on property tax revenue for essential services including schools, police, fire departments and infrastructure maintenance.