At a budget hearing in Key Biscayne last week, State Rep. Vicki Lopez shared that Florida’s House Select Committee on Property Taxes — a 37-member panel she co-chairs — is actively exploring options ranging from targeted relief to a full constitutional amendment. If lawmakers put the issue on the 2026 ballot and voters approve it by 60%, the state could take a historic step toward eliminating property taxes.
But the catch? That $11 million in revenue for Key Biscayne — and billions across the state — would need to be replaced somehow.
DeSantis Pushes to End Property Taxes
Governor Ron DeSantis has been vocal about his long-term goal: abolishing property taxes altogether. “Paying taxes on a property you own is like paying rent to the government,” he told Miami residents earlier this year.
As a short-term relief measure, he’s floated a $1,000 rebate for homesteaded properties. Still, the bigger fight is how to replace revenue that funds schools, infrastructure, and essential services like police and fire departments.
The Debate: Relief or Risk?
Lopez warned that while tax cuts sound good, eliminating property taxes without a replacement plan could backfire. Cities like Key Biscayne would have no capacity to cover the shortfall without raising other taxes or cutting services.
“I’m a firm believer in holding harmless our public safety,” Lopez said. “I can’t imagine a world where we don’t have law and order.”
The committee is expected to meet again September 22–23 in Tallahassee, with more discussions planned through the fall.
What This Means for Florida Homeowners
For now, one thing is clear: tax relief is coming, but the scope is still uncertain. Options range from modest rebates to sweeping structural changes that could permanently alter how Florida funds its communities.
For property owners, investors, and future buyers, this debate is critical. Lower or eliminated property taxes could boost affordability, but any offset through higher sales taxes or reduced services would need to be carefully weighed.
At Lendworth USA, we’re watching these developments closely because they directly impact homeownership costs, lending decisions, and long-term investment opportunities across Florida.
One thing’s certain — this will be one of the most important policy debates of 2026.
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