DeSantis calls a Florida special session on property taxes, set for Monday

Lawmakers will stay in Tallahassee a little longer after Gov. Ron DeSantis called a special session to pass a property tax amendment for the November ballot.

The session is expected to start on Monday.

The Florida Legislature considered several different amendments to make changes to local property taxes during the regular session, but all of them died in committee.

DeSantis said he wants to increase the homestead property tax exemption to $250,000 initially and then grow the exemption from there.

Any legislation to reform property taxes would have to be put on the November ballot and pass with 60% of the vote.

In the past, the governor has called for eliminating non-school property taxes, or at least a reduction in the taxes. Regardless of what the governor wants, it will be up to the legislature to decide what the final amendment or amendments look like.

Local governments say such a move would decimate their ability to maintain services ranging from building and maintaining roads to police, fire, and EMS services, though the governor says any cuts to property taxes would not hurt first responders.

DeSantis said his proposal would create a state trust fund to assist with core local services.

In a memorandum sent to state senators after DeSantis’ announcement, Senate President Ben Albritton threw his support behind the proposal.

“I can’t think of a more meaningful way to celebrate America’s 250 then the passage of $250,000 in tax relief for every Florida homeowner,” Albritton wrote. “I believe this amendment will provide meaningful relief for Florida families, while protecting businesses from extreme tax increases and safeguarding local funding for public safety, education and our clean water infrastructure.”

Lawmakers are currently in Tallahassee for a special session on the state budget. A vote is set for Friday.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.