A newly formed political committee is gearing up to oppose Florida’s proposed property tax amendment, setting the stage for what is expected to become one of the state’s biggest ballot battles this November.
The committee, Vote No on 3, was officially organized in early June, according to records from the Florida Division of Elections. Its leaders say the proposed constitutional amendment could have far-reaching consequences for local governments and the public services Floridians rely on. (Constitutional Initiatives)
The committee is chaired by Bryan Desloge, a retired businessman who spent 14 years on the Leon County Commission as its only Republican member. Serving as treasurer is Jonathan Brill, described by Florida Politics as a prominent Democratic campaign compliance expert.
Rather than focusing solely on taxes, the committee is framing its campaign around the potential impact on everyday services.
Opponents argue that significantly reducing property tax revenues could leave cities and counties with difficult choices, including possible cuts to:
🚓 Police and fire services
🚑 Emergency medical response
🌳 Parks and recreation
🚧 Road maintenance and infrastructure
📚 Libraries and community programs
Several Florida cities have already warned the amendment could create substantial budget shortfalls if approved by voters. (Axios)
The proposed constitutional amendment, backed by Governor Ron DeSantis and approved during a special legislative session, would dramatically expand Florida’s homestead exemption.
If approved by at least 60% of voters in November:
🏡 The current $50,000 homestead exemption would increase to $150,000 in 2027.
📈 It would then rise to $250,000 in 2028.
💰 The measure also lays the groundwork for additional future reductions in non-school property taxes on homesteads. (Barnes Walker)
Supporters argue homeowners deserve relief after years of rising property values, increasing insurance costs, and higher tax bills.
Critics counter that while homeowners may save money, local governments could lose billions of dollars in revenue, potentially forcing service reductions or shifting more of the tax burden onto businesses and non-homestead property owners. Some estimates project statewide local government revenue losses reaching several billion dollars annually once the amendment is fully implemented. (Kiplinger)
With the amendment now headed to the November ballot, Floridians are likely to see an increasingly heated campaign from both supporters and opponents as they debate one of the most significant proposed changes to the state’s property tax system in decades.