Florida House votes 80-30 to advance tax exemption for homestead properties

House Bill 203 was passed by the Florida House of Representatives Thursday, Feb. 19. 

This bill would eliminate non-school property taxes for homestead properties. 

The bill is controversial as it would negatively affect local governments by largely decreasing their fundings, but bring financial relief to residents. 

"I filed HJR 203 to give meaningful Property Tax relief to Floridians," said Florida Representative Monique Miller, who filed the bill. "This bill proposes an amendment to the Florida Constitution that gradually increases the homestead exemption from all ad-valorem taxes—except school district levies—by $100,000 each year for ten years, beginning in 2027.

"By 2037, all homestead property will be exempt from non-school ad valorem taxes," she said. "This gradual approach ensures that homeowners see consistent tax relief while giving local governments time to plan and adjust for revenue changes." 

House members voted 80-30 to pass the amended resolution, now, the Florida Senate will revise it and make a decision. 

If the Senate approves the bill as is, it will be sent to Gov. Ron DeSantis to sign it or veto it. 

If the Senate makes any amends to the bill, it must go back to the House to agree on a final version. 

It is possible the bill will be on the ballot in November for residents to vote on, however, it is too soon to know.