What Happened:
The debate is no longer about what might happen.
On June 2, 2026, the Florida Legislature approved CS/HJR 1-F, “Save Our Homes from Excessive Property Taxes,” and officially placed the constitutional amendment on the November 2026 statewide ballot. The measure passed the House 75-26 and the Senate 30-9. Florida voters will now decide its fate, and it will require 60% voter approval to become law. (Florida House of Representatives)
The version approved by lawmakers differs significantly from Governor DeSantis’ original proposal.
What the Approved Amendment Would Do:
Expanded Homestead Exemption
- In 2027, the homestead exemption would increase to $150,000 for non-school property taxes.
- In 2028, the exemption would increase again to $250,000.
- Future increases would be indexed for inflation. (JD Supra)
School Taxes Protected – One of the biggest changes made during the special session was carving out school district taxes. Homeowners would continue paying the school portion of their property tax bill. The expanded exemption applies only to county, municipal, and other non-school levies. (Spectrum News 13)
Commercial and Non-Homestead Properties – The amendment would reduce the annual assessment growth cap on non-homestead property, including commercial property, rentals, and second homes, from 10% to 5% per year. (JD Supra)
Future Elimination Language – The amendment includes language directing the Legislature to create a process for potentially expanding homestead exemptions further in the future, potentially up to full exemption of remaining non-school property taxes. However, the amendment itself does not immediately eliminate property taxes. Future legislative action would still be required. (WUSF)
Restrictions on Local Government Spending – The proposal also limits how counties and municipalities may use property tax revenues, focusing expenditures on public safety, infrastructure, education, flood control, natural resource projects, debt obligations, pensions, and core government operations. (Ballotpedia News)
What Is Happening Now:
The question has shifted from “Will lawmakers approve it?” to: Will Florida voters approve it in November?
Over the next several months, supporters and opponents will begin making their case.
Supporters argue:
- Homeowners need meaningful relief from rising property taxes.
- Increased disposable income could boost local spending.
- Seniors on fixed incomes may find it easier to remain in their homes.
- Homeownership may become more affordable for some Floridians.
- Florida’s growing property tax collections justify returning money to taxpayers. (Florida Governor\u2019s Office)
Critics argue:
- Cities and counties could lose billions in future revenue.
- Public safety, infrastructure, parks, and local services may face funding challenges.
- Revenue losses could eventually be replaced through fees, assessments, or other taxes.
- Commercial properties could face increased pressure in future budget cycles.
- Long-term impacts remain uncertain because the proposal creates a framework that future legislatures may expand. (WUSF)
Legislative analyst’s estimate local governments statewide could experience revenue reductions approaching $4.6 billion annually by 2027-28 and approximately $8.4 billion annually by 2028-29 if voters approve the measure. (Ballotpedia News)
What This Means Locally:
This remains the single most important policy issue facing Punta Gorda, Charlotte County, and Florida businesses. The potential impacts extend far beyond property tax bills.
Locally, this could influence:
- police and fire funding
- roads and transportation projects
- parks and recreation facilities
- stormwater and drainage infrastructure
- permitting and development services
- economic development initiatives
- long-term capital improvement plans
- future city and county budgets
For businesses, there are both opportunities and concerns.
Potential opportunities:
- More disposable income circulating through the local economy.
- Increased consumer spending.
- Additional housing demand.
- Potential attraction of retirees and homeowners seeking affordability.
- Greater spending at local businesses if dollars remain within the community.
Potential concerns:
- Future increases in fees, assessments, or service charges.
- Pressure on commercial taxpayers if local revenues decline.
- Delays to infrastructure projects.
- Reduced local government capacity.
- Uncertainty regarding how revenue losses are replaced.
This is why the discussion should not be framed as simply “for” or “against.”
The real question is, How can Florida provide meaningful tax relief while maintaining the services, infrastructure, and quality of life that make communities like Punta Gorda attractive places to live, work, and invest?
What to Watch:
Between now and November, several important questions remain unanswered:
- Will voters support the amendment at the required 60% threshold?
- How will local governments adjust long-term financial planning?
- Will consumer spending increase enough to offset some revenue impacts?
- Will reduced housing costs attract more working families, retirees, or both?
- Could commercial property owners eventually face greater tax burdens?
- Will future legislatures pursue full elimination of homestead property taxes?
Perhaps the biggest question remains, Who ultimately pays for the difference if local governments lose billions in property tax revenue?
That conversation is only beginning.
Action Steps:
- Learn what is actually in the amendment, not just the headlines.
- Discuss both the benefits and potential unintended consequences.
- Ask local leaders how Punta Gorda and Charlotte County could be affected.
- Consider how changes could impact your business, customers, employees, and community.
- Begin thinking strategically about how additional consumer spending could be captured locally.
- Share your thoughts with the Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce so we can better understand member concerns and advocate effectively on your behalf.
This issue will shape the future of Florida long after November’s election. Now is the time to become informed and engaged.
