Florida Property Tax Relief Coming-Maybe

By Tracy Caruso On Feb 23, 2026 0 Copy Link Print

In a historic vote, the Florida House moved to obliterate non-school property taxes on homesteads, passing CS/CS/HJR 203 by 80-30, and now it goes to the Senate. This isn’t a tweak—it’s a full wipeout of county, city, and special district levies starting January 1, 2027, sparing only school board taxes while locking in funding for cops, firefighters, and first responders at 2026 baselines. But before you get all psyched up, keep in mind that about 48% of your ad valorem taxes go to school taxes, which you will still be paying, and there’s no companion bill in the Senate.

Subscribe to The Florida Jolt Newsletter!

Some say the Senate is unlikely to pass a bill this drastic, leaving others to ask: Is this all a performative act, meant to dupe voters into thinking property tax relief is coming, only to have nothing happen? Keep in mind that if the House and the Senate do come together on this, 60% of the voters will have to vote in favor for it to pass.

House Speaker Danny Perez described it as “the most aggressive legislation ever passed by a legislative chamber on property taxes.” For Palm Beach County, this could slash homestead property tax bills by half overnight, assuming voters greenlight it.

But the Senate may be a problem, or a blessing, depending on how you view this issue. No companion bill exists, and Senate President Ben Albritton wants it “right, not fast,” eyeing a milder cut amid concerns at the local level over lost revenue. An identical passage in both chambers sends it to November’s ballot, requiring 60% yes votes—no DeSantis signature required.

Proponents see it as vital relief against rising insurance premiums and living costs.

Opponents, led by Democrats, predict budget mayhem. “This creates a $15 billion hole counties can’t plug without service cuts or fee hikes,” said House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell. Local leaders, battered by hurricanes and rising costs, brace for impacts on infrastructure, libraries, and parks. Senate President Ben Albritton is favoring a compromise to sidestep shortfalls.

Palm Beach County Impact

Palm Beach County could lose over $1 billion in non-school revenue, according to state estimates. Tax revenue for the county has doubled in recent years, but core services like roads and libraries haven’t expanded proportionally. Homesteaders (over 60% of properties) could lower their homestead bills exponentially; a $500,000 home could save $5,000-$7,000 yearly, with pre-assessed value caps. But counties warn of fee hikes, service trims, or non-exempt property tax jumps without state offsets.

Senate Passage Odds

Odds are low for the full House version. Senate leaders signal a milder plan, citing uneven county impacts throughout the state and voter skepticism. With no companion bill filed, identical language is needed to bridge a budget gap—possible via a special session, but “generous” cuts face resistance.

In Palm Beach County, this reshapes local finance. Counties lose their cash cow, forcing them to choose between efficiency and state bailouts. If it sticks, your homestead dodges the taxman—except schools—while public safety holds firm.

Florida’s property tax rebellion is roaring. Senate, it’s your move.

Other stories you may want to read:

Flamingo May Pink Slip Boring Mockingbird

Jack’s 2026 Boca Raton Voter Guide

About
Latest Posts

Tracy Caruso

Tracy Caruso is the President/Owner of Delray Beach Executive Suites. In December of 2022, she was appointed by Governor DeSantis as a commissioner to the Health Care District of Palm Beach County. She is Chair of the Housing & Finance Authority of Palm Beach County and a Trustee for Palm Beach State College. She is also a certified rape crisis counselor and trained literacy advocate. She currently serves on many boards including The Hispanic Vote and Propel. Tracy is married to Mike Caruso, the Clerk and Comptroller of Palm Beach County. She’s a stepmother of 7 and a mother of 2 toy poodles.