Florida’s property tax system has long been a hot topic for homeowners, real estate investors, and policymakers alike. With rising property values and increasing insurance costs putting pressure on residents, the 2026 legislative session is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for reform. Florida’s 2026 legislative session has placed property tax reform at the top of its agenda, as homeowners, lawmakers, and policymakers grapple with rising property tax burdens. Lawmakers have introduced a slew of bills aimed at providing relief, restructuring exemptions, and addressing specific challenges like affordable housing and tangible personal property taxes. These proposals could significantly impact how Florida property taxes are assessed and collected across the state.
In this article, we’ll dive into 12 key bills under consideration. These range from constitutional amendments requiring voter approval to statutory changes that could take effect more quickly. While not all may pass, they reflect the broader push for tax relief amid Florida’s growing population and economic shifts. We’ve focused on bills that directly target property taxes, homestead exemptions, and related reforms, drawing from official legislative filings and updates.
12 Key Bills Addressing Florida Property Taxes
1. HJR 201: Elimination of Non-School Property Tax for Homesteads
Sponsored by Rep. Steele, this joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to exempt homestead properties from all ad valorem taxes except those levied by school districts. If approved by voters, it would eliminate non-school property taxes on primary residences, offering substantial relief to homeowners.
2. HJR 203: Phased Out Elimination of Non-School Property Tax for Homesteads
Rep. Miller’s proposal outlines a 10-year phase-out of non-school homestead property taxes. Homeowners would receive an additional $100,000 exemption each year until full elimination. This gradual approach aims to balance tax relief with local government revenue needs.
3. HJR 205: Elimination of Non-School Property Tax for Homesteads for Persons Age 65 or Older
Targeted at seniors, this bill by Rep. Porras seeks a constitutional amendment to exempt homesteads owned by those 65 and older from non-school property taxes. It addresses affordability for fixed-income retirees in a state with a large elderly population.
4. HJR 207: Assessed Home Value Homestead Exemption of Non-School Property Tax
Rep. Abbott sponsors this amendment, which would create a new homestead exemption equal to 25% of the property’s assessed value for non-school taxes. It benefits both current owners and first-time buyers by reducing the overall tax burden.
5. HJR 209: Property Insurance Relief Homestead Exemption Non-School Property Tax
This resolution by Rep. Busatta proposes an additional $100,000 exemption on non-school property taxes for homestead owners with property insurance. It ties tax relief to insurance coverage, helping offset rising premiums in hurricane-prone Florida.
6. HJR 211: Accrued Save-Our-Homes Property Tax Benefit for Non-School Property Tax
Sponsored by Rep. Overdorf, this amendment would remove the cap on portability, allowing homeowners to transfer their full accumulated Save Our Homes benefit to a new home, regardless of value. It promotes mobility without tax penalties.
7. HJR 213: Modification of Limitations on Property Assessment Increases
Rep. Griffitts’ bill proposes limiting assessment growth to 3% over three years for homesteads (instead of annually) and 15% over three years for non-homestead properties. This could slow tax increases tied to market value spikes.
8. HB 215: Statutory Changes to Property Taxes
Also by Rep. Albert, this general bill includes measures like requiring a two-thirds vote for millage rate increases and allowing newly married couples to combine Save Our Homes benefits. It focuses on procedural reforms for fairer taxation.
9. HB 1277: Prohibition on Levying Ad Valorem Taxes on Tangible Personal Property
Rep. LaMarca’s legislation aims to ban ad valorem taxes on tangible personal property (like business equipment). It would conform statutes to a potential constitutional change, easing burdens on businesses and individuals.
10. SB 552: Prohibition on Levying Ad Valorem Taxes on Tangible Personal Property
The Senate companion to HB 1277, sponsored by Sen. Bernard, similarly prohibits these taxes. It highlights bipartisan interest in simplifying the tax code for personal and business assets.
11. SB 276: Homestead Property Tax Benefits for Long-term Owners and Permanent Residents
Sen. Bernard introduces benefits for long-term homestead owners, potentially including assessment caps or exemptions to reward residency stability in Florida’s dynamic housing market.
12. SB 1520: Affordable Housing Property Tax Exemption
This bill revises conditions for taxing authorities to opt out of exempting affordable housing properties, encouraging more developments to address Florida’s housing shortage through tax incentives.
Summary
These bills represent a mix of bold reforms and targeted adjustments, with many requiring a 60% voter approval threshold for constitutional changes in the 2026 election. Governor Ron DeSantis has expressed caution about overcrowding the ballot, suggesting a special session might consolidate ideas into fewer proposals. As the session progresses, stakeholders—including counties, schools, and real estate professionals—will weigh in on potential revenue losses versus homeowner benefits.
If you’re a Florida resident or investor, staying informed on these developments is crucial. They could reshape property ownership costs and influence market trends. Keep an eye on the Florida Legislature’s website for updates, and consider how these changes might affect your situation.
Are you thinking about buying or selling real estate in the South Florida area? We can help! Contact Natasha at Live South Florida Realty, Inc. today! Also, be sure to download the free Florida Home Search App for your smartphone or tablet.
