A proposal to cut property taxes in Florida has sparked a rift among Republicans. State Senate President Ben Albritton has revealed his intention to vote against Amendment 3 in the upcoming November 3rd elections, despite previously backing the measure.
Albritton, a Republican lawmaker who initially supported the initiative when the Senate approved it by a 30-9 vote in June, now cites concerns about its impact on public services, particularly in rural areas, as reported by Florida Phoenix on October 20.
“Amendment 3 would remove up to 30% of funding from Florida's rural counties, crippling essential support for law enforcement, emergency services, and critical infrastructure,” Albritton warned in a statement released by the Florida Sheriffs Association on Tuesday.
This stance marks a shift from his earlier support for increased tax relief for homeowners. Albritton is not alone in his change of heart. Former Senate President Kathleen Passidomo also announced her opposition, having once endorsed the proposal.
Statewide organizations representing sheriffs, police, and firefighters have joined these lawmakers, cautioning about potential cuts to public services.
Governor DeSantis Defends Tax Reduction Amid Local Concerns
Governor Ron DeSantis defended Amendment 3 on Wednesday during a meeting with local officials at the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office headquarters. He challenged local governments' warnings of possible public service reductions, arguing that administrations can trim expenses without impacting essential services.
“This is a bottom-up approach, not top-down. If it were up to politicians, this wouldn’t have made it onto the ballot,” he asserted, downplaying criticism from Republican leaders.
The proposal aims to increase the homestead property tax exemption to the first $150,000 of assessed value in 2027 and to $250,000 in 2028. It would only apply to non-school taxes, keeping school funding unaffected. Additionally, it plans to decrease the annual cap on non-homestead property tax increases from 10% to 5%, impacting rental properties.
Division in Miami-Dade
In Miami-Dade, Cuban-American Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz, Property Appraiser Tomás Regalado, and Tax Collector Dariel Fernández are among the Republican officials supporting the amendment. However, Democratic Mayor Daniella Levine Cava warns of its potential repercussions on public services.
County estimates suggest Miami-Dade could lose approximately $385.8 million in revenue in the first year and $696.7 million annually thereafter at current tax rates. Mayor Levine Cava has highlighted that such a revenue drop might jeopardize essential services, including fire departments and libraries.
Impact on Homeowners and Renters
For many homeowners, including thousands of Cuban residents in Florida, Amendment 3 could mean a notable reduction in property taxes on their primary residences. An analysis estimated that eligible homeowners in Miami-Dade might save around $1,500 annually once the tax exemption expansion is fully implemented in 2028, provided the measure passes.
However, renters are unlikely to see a direct benefit and might face different economic outcomes. A study on Amendment 3's impact predicted that rental property taxes could rise by an average of $1,081 annually in Florida by 2028 if local governments increase rates to offset lost revenue. Some of this cost might be passed on to tenants.
The proposal also stipulates that individuals who become Florida residents after December 31, 2026, would need to wait until their fifth year of eligibility to access the expanded exemption.
For Amendment 3 to become part of the state Constitution, it requires at least 60% voter approval. A University of North Florida poll released Wednesday showed 50% support, 35% opposition, and 14% undecided.
The final decision will rest with voters on November 3rd.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida's Amendment 3
What is Amendment 3 in Florida?
Amendment 3 proposes to increase the property tax exemption on homestead properties, potentially reducing taxes for homeowners but affecting public service funding.
Why is Senate President Ben Albritton opposing Amendment 3?
Ben Albritton opposes Amendment 3 due to its potential negative impact on public services, particularly in rural communities, despite previously supporting it.
How could Amendment 3 affect renters in Florida?
Renters might face increased costs as rental property taxes could rise if local governments adjust rates to recoup lost revenue, potentially passing these costs onto tenants.