Overview
- The proposed Amendment 3 would raise the homestead exemption for non‑school property taxes from $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028 while capping non‑homestead assessment growth at 5 percent and allowing exemption portability when homeowners move.
- Legislative analysts estimate the measure would cut local government property‑tax revenue by about $5 billion in its first year and roughly $11.8 billion annually once fully implemented, figures that polling shows reduce voter support when disclosed.
- Organized opposition includes the Florida Democratic Party, the Florida Fire Chiefs' Association, the Fraternal Order of Police, Floridians for Shared Prosperity, and firefighter groups that say the plan lacks a reliable way to fund emergency services.
- Committees opposing the amendment have raised almost no money since June, collecting under $30,000 in total according to Division of Elections filings, while high‑profile Republicans show mixed support with Gov. Ron DeSantis backing the measure and Sen. Rick Scott expressing concern then saying he will vote for it.
- County officials warn of large local shortfalls if the amendment passes, with Collier County projecting about $63 million in losses after the first change and roughly $120 million by 2028, and pending legal challenges over ballot language and fiscal disclosures could shape voter understanding before November.