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Florida Lawmakers Advance Major Property Tax Reforms for 2026

10/18/2025

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Perez Advances Tax Reforms

Florida lawmakers, led by House Speaker Daniel Perez (R-Fla.), advance reforms from a committee formed by Governor Ron DeSantis (R-Fla.) for 2026 ballot.
The proposals would eliminate homestead property taxes and create exemptions for homeowners and first-time buyers.
They would limit assessed value growth used to determine tax bills.
Funding for law enforcement and school taxes would remain unaffected.
The next step is to present these options to voters for approval.

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UK Economists Demand Reform

The United Kingdom faces a stagnant economy and affordability crisis caused by a property tax system favoring housing investment over business equity.
Economists across the political spectrum call for reform, including replacing stamp duty with a proportional property tax.
Conservatives and Reform UK proposals to cut property taxes may raise housing demand and prices, benefiting wealthier homeowners and harming first-time buyers.

History

Historical Context

California's Proposition 13, enacted in 1978, limited property tax increases to 1% of assessed value and capped annual increases at 2%. This reform resulted in a 57% decline in property tax revenue for local governments, prompting states like Florida to explore similar tax measures. Current proposals in Florida aim to eliminate homestead property taxes, potentially reshaping funding for essential services and affecting housing affordability.

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Perez Advances Tax Reforms

Florida lawmakers, led by House Speaker Daniel Perez (R-Fla.), advance reforms from a committee formed by Governor Ron DeSantis (R-Fla.) for 2026 ballot.
The proposals would eliminate homestead property taxes and create exemptions for homeowners and first-time buyers.
They would limit assessed value growth used to determine tax bills.
Funding for law enforcement and school taxes would remain unaffected.
The next step is to present these options to voters for approval.

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