The Florida chapter of the Fraternal Order of Police has become the latest organization to publicly oppose Amendment 3, November ballot referendum that would expand the homestead exemption for non-school property taxes.
WUWF reports the organization cited potential disruptions to the funding of public services if the measure was approved. Amendment 3 would increase homestead exemptions for state residents who own primary residences by the end of this year to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, with further increases tied to the Consumer Price Index. The amendment caps assessment increases on other property to 5% a year.
“The Florida State Fraternal Order of Police believes Florida taxpayers deserve meaningful property tax relief,” said the organization in a statement. “We understand the financial pressures facing homeowners, and we support thoughtful, responsible reforms that provide relief while protecting the essential services our communities depend on.”
“However,” the statement added, “we oppose the current Amendment 3 because it creates far too much uncertainty about how local governments would continue to fund law enforcement, fire rescue, emergency medical services, and other critical public safety functions. Public safety should never become collateral damage with uncertain fiscal consequences.”
The Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association had previously voiced its disapproval of the measure, and the Florida Democratic Party announced its opposition. Gov. Ron DeSantis, who pushed for property tax reform, stated he would vote for the amendment but would not campaign for its passage because it differed from the proposal he sought from the state legislature.
They just lost my donation and support.
Florida is by most part a retirement state. It is difficult and unfair that Homestead homes should keep carrying the burden of the state / Cities. There
are other ways to raise funds. The Federal Government should be the one funding the Essential Services, since all Income Tax from employment goes into the coffers of the Federal Government.
Homestead properties with a certain value, occupancy, and Income should also be exempt from Property Tax all together.
Lets face it, We have billionaires on Palm Beach Island who can more than afford to pay more into the State & City Coffers. Level the playing field.
It is very disheartening when a senior person’s home is being auctioned off just because they could not afford to pay property tax.