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In a significant development for Florida homeowners, House Republicans have made strides in advancing property tax reform initiatives through preliminary committees. Last week, they proposed a series of measures aimed at reducing non-school property taxes, including options to completely eliminate these taxes or to gradually phase them out over a span of ten years. Such proposals mark a potential shift in the financial landscape for many Floridians, igniting both excitement and concern within the community.
One particularly notable bill aims to provide relief exclusively to individuals aged 65 and older, a demographic that often faces unique financial challenges. “This is a targeted approach to help those who need it the most,” stated Miami Republican Rep. Juan Porras in an interview with Spectrum News 13. He emphasized that the measures are designed to support our most vulnerable communities—those who have historically contributed to the development of our cities and counties.
In addition, another proposal seeks to secure law enforcement funding by ensuring that police budgets remain untouched, a move that reflects a dual commitment to both public safety and tax relief. However, these proposed constitutional amendments, if they gain approval from the Legislature, will ultimately face a vote from Floridians in 2026, where they will require a significant 60% support to be enacted.
Despite the potential benefits, Democrats have voiced concerns regarding the implications of these changes, particularly for local governments that rely heavily on property taxes for funding essential services. The Florida Policy Institute estimates a staggering $43 billion shortfall in funding necessary to maintain services under the proposed House reforms. House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell cautioned, “We should not be putting our local governments in a situation where we’re taking away tools, only to have them shift that burden in some other way. That is actually going to have the most adverse impacts on the people who need our help the most.”
As of now, the Florida Senate has yet to file any companion bills related to these measures. Meanwhile, Gov. Ron DeSantis has criticized the idea of placing multiple tax amendments on the 2026 ballot, labeling it as a flawed approach, as reported by Spectrum News 13. It’s crucial to note that the property tax burden in Florida has increasingly shifted towards residential property owners over the past 30 years. State data indicates that residential properties now contribute more than 70% of the total property taxes levied across the state, a notable increase from earlier decades.
Five Bills Head to Ohio Governor’s Desk
Meanwhile, Ohio stands on the brink of significant property tax reform as Gov. Mike DeWine reviews five sweeping property tax bills that have rapidly passed through the GOP-led Legislature. These measures follow extensive public feedback and are reflective of ongoing debates concerning taxation in the state. The proposed changes come after DeWine previously vetoed tax alterations included in the state budget—a move that lawmakers initially aimed to override before backpedaling following one override related to substitute and emergency levies.
The new proposals will empower county officials to reduce levies that voters previously approved, curtail the growth of tax bills to align with inflation, and expand opportunities for tax reductions while also shifting the burden of proof in valuation disputes. Republican Sen. Sandra O’Brien articulated the sentiments of many constituents, stating, “Our taxpayers, whom we represent, want property tax relief. The bills that we are about to vote on offer them that relief.” She also warned of a distinct ballot effort to completely abolish property taxes, cautioning that such an outcome would “place Ohio at the edge of the abyss.”
Gov. DeWine has expressed his intention to evaluate these bills based on the recommendations of a property tax working group he convened. This group is expected to weigh the funding needs for schools and local services against the rising costs faced by homeowners while providing guidance on various measures, including millage caps and guidelines surrounding how and when approved levies can be reduced. “So, I’ll judge those bills based upon what the committee came up with,” DeWine noted. “In a few days, we’ll have some comments about that.”
The trajectory of property taxes in Ohio highlights a similar trend seen in Florida, where policy changes over the last three decades have shifted more of the tax burden onto residential property owners and away from businesses. According to state data, residential property taxes have increased significantly—from mid-50% representation of the total property tax revenue in 1999 to now comprising a range of high-60% to low-70% in recent years. This gradual but clear transition raises critical questions about equity in taxation and the sustainability of local services.
FAQs About Property Tax Legislation
What are the proposed changes to property taxes in Florida?
The proposed changes include measures to outright eliminate non-school property taxes or begin phasing them out over ten years, along with specific provisions for residents aged 65 and older.
How will these changes affect local governments?
Local governments may face significant budgetary constraints, as they rely heavily on property taxes for funding essential services. Critics warn that these reforms could lead to a $43 billion funding gap.
What is the process for these tax reforms in Florida?
If approved by the Legislature, the constitutional amendments will be placed on the ballot for Florida voters in 2026, requiring 60% support to pass.
What is happening in Ohio regarding property taxes?
Ohio’s legislature has passed five property tax reform bills aimed at providing tax relief to homeowners, including measures to reduce previously approved levies and curb tax bill growth in line with inflation.
What concerns have been raised about the proposed bills in Ohio?
Some lawmakers warn that a separate effort to eliminate property taxes entirely could jeopardize local funding and serve as a detrimental move for residents dependent on local services.
Both states are navigating complex waters as they seek to balance tax relief for residents while ensuring that essential services remain funded and available to their communities. The outcomes of these proposed reforms will significantly shape the real estate landscape and overall fiscal health of both Florida and Ohio in the years to come.
