The Great Florida Property Tax Illusion: An Update

In June, Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature approved a proposed constitutional amendment called “Save Our Homes from Excessive Property Taxes.” The measure will appear on the November 2026 ballot and must receive 60 percent voter approval to take effect.

On the surface, that sounds like an easy choice. But this debate is about much more than reducing tax bills. It is about changing the relationship between local communities and the state government. Supporters present it as tax relief for homeowners frustrated by rising housing costs and insurance premiums. But Florida is not simply debating a tax cut. Florida is debating a fundamental redesign of how local governments are financed.

For decades, Florida has operated under the principle that decisions affecting local residents should largely be made locally. County commissioners and city council members determine budgets, set priorities, and answer directly to the voters who elected them. If citizens dislike those choices, they have the power to elect different leaders. Read more