Who Pays the Price? Unpacking FL’s Property Tax Rollback Proposals

Published on October 01, 2025

Jeniffer Viscarra Commissioner

By Jeniffer Viscarra, Commissioner

At our September 3, 2025 budget meeting I expressed my concerns about making budget decisions without data, especially given the state legislature’s talk about eliminating or severely cutting property taxes in the next legislative session. The proposed reforms could mean drastic revenue shortfalls, calling into question how property taxes will continue to adequately fund vital services like public schools, police, and infrastructure (Florida Today, WUSF).  To offset lost revenue, proposals include replacing property taxes with higher sales taxes—potentially doubling the current rate from 6% to as much as 12% (WUSF, Kiplinger). While homeowners might see immediate relief, especially fixed-income residents, shifting to a higher sales tax may not make up the shortfall and could disproportionately hurt lower-income individuals as it would raise prices on everyday goods(WUSF, Kiplinger). The Florida League of Cities, with whom I work during the legislative session to defend Home Rule (autonomy of local government), is already sounding the alarm on this issue and will monitor its development closely.  

No other state has eliminated property taxes. In 2024, North Dakota voters rejected a similar measure to eliminate property taxes, citing projected losses of billions in services funding (New York Post). Since the study funded by the Florida legislature was vetoed, voters and legislators may be forced to explore this monumental issue without reliable, nonpartisan data. We may be limited to partisan talking points without thoughtful analysis. Unless the cuts are targeted to provide relief for those most affected by property taxes (for example, homesteaded seniors), this will be a devastating move for local governments and school districts. In the short term, it would impact the cost of local services, especially those we subsidize (free or reduced fee) – such as our after-school programs, senior programs, The Spot, events, and our shuttle buses. It would be nice to pay zero property tax, but we must consider the trade-off. I promise you, there will be one. 

Contact Commissioner Jeniffer Viscarra at seat4@sibfl.net or 305.792.1750. 

 

Tagged as:
Back to top