DeSantis Backs Amendment 3 as Local Leaders Warn of $12 Billion Revenue Loss

Florida’s local governments stand to lose nearly $12 billion in recurring revenue if voters approve Amendment 3 on November 3. The ballot measure proposes raising the homestead property tax exemption from $50,000 to $250,000 over two years. This change could functionally eliminate all non-school homestead property taxes in some jurisdictions over time.

The proposal has divided communities across the state. Supporters, including Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Realtors trade association, argue that property taxes have grown out of control. They contend that homeowners funded record revenue gains for local governments, driven by a post-pandemic real estate boom. Margy Grant, CEO of Florida Realtors, stated that the amendment ensures residents who want to stay in their homes can do so despite rising costs. The group spent $19.5 million on its 'Vote Yes on 3' campaign by the end of October.

Critics warn that the tax cut will force deep reductions in public services. Steven Johnson, an organizer with Florida Rising, noted that members often ask, 'Affordability? For who?' He and other opponents argue that the measure erodes the safety net for renters and those who rely on municipal programs. In Jacksonville, the Florida Policy Institute estimated the city could lose as much as $372 million over the next five years. Mike Weinstein, the city’s chief administrative officer, said this would impact mosquito control, road surfacing, libraries, and parks.

Weinstein, a Republican, described the timing of the vote as rushed. He stated that the amendment was put to voters without allowing for an understanding of unintended consequences. He noted that a small segment of homeowners would benefit, while the majority, including renters and business owners, would see no direct benefit. He warned that the city might have to open a large complaints department rather than fund essential infrastructure if the measure passes.

The debate has centered on how local governments will maintain police, fire, and emergency medical services. The Florida Sheriffs Association warned that these agencies would suffer from the revenue loss. Proponents dismissed these warnings as overblown talking points. Senator Rick Scott argued that every county has waste to cut, suggesting the amendment would force efficiency rather than service cuts. Local leaders countered that funds for libraries, public transportation, homelessness prevention, and after-school programs are also at risk.

Rachel Dues, a 54-year-old disabled veteran and notary, described the vote as existential for her. She rents a home and relies on food pantries and other services to manage her budget. Dues, who works as a closing agent, sees high home prices but worries about the disappearance of support programs. She organized voter outreach calls with Florida Rising, telling residents that the amendment may lead to cuts in flood prevention, road maintenance, and housing assistance. She described the promise of affordability as a bait and switch for the long term.

Maggie Fernandez, a 68-year-old homeowner who might benefit from the tax cut, has been canvassing to vote it down. She acknowledged the potential relief in taxes but argued that the measure would hurt local services and people worse off than herself. On one recent evening, Fernandez made 111 phone calls to urge her neighbors to vote no. Organizers reported making nearly 1,500 calls that night from the Florida Rising office in Jacksonville.

Property tax revenue for local governments in Florida nearly doubled from $32 billion in 2019 to almost $60 billion in the last fiscal year, according to the governor's office. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities found that 11 states have reined in property taxes so far in 2026. Florida’s proposal is more expansive than measures in other states, placing the decision directly in the hands of voters.

The amendment requires a 60% supermajority to pass. Early voting is underway, and turnout efforts have intensified in the final days before Election Day. The outcome will determine whether local governments in Florida face immediate budget shortfalls or continue collecting current levels of property tax revenue.