Florida residents have just seven days to consider Amendment 3, a statewide ballot measure that would create a homestead property tax exemption for many homeowners. Supporters argue the change is needed to ease the growing burden of property taxes, while public‑safety officials warn that the loss of revenue could force cuts to essential emergency services.

What Amendment 3 Proposes

The amendment would lower the taxable value of a homeowner’s primary residence, potentially reducing the property tax bill for qualifying households. Proponents say the relief is critical as property‑tax revenue has risen sharply in recent years.

Supporters Emphasize Affordability

Margy Grant, chair of the Vote Yes on 3 campaign and a representative of Florida Realtors, contended that the measure addresses an affordability crisis. “There’s a lot of misinformation out there about Amendment Three,” Grant said. She noted that property‑tax revenue has doubled over the past decade and projected that without action, revenue could climb from $20 billion in 2019 to nearly $80 billion by 2030. Grant argued the amendment would level off that growth while preserving funds for public safety.

Grant also framed the issue as one affecting families: “This is about our kids. This is about our seniors.” The campaign urges voters to consider the long‑term impact of rising taxes on households across the state.

First‑Responder Concerns

Opponents, led by fire‑fighter and union leaders, stress that property taxes fund the equipment and personnel that protect communities. Rocco Salvatori, vice president of the Florida Professional Firefighters, reminded voters that property taxes paid for ambulances, fire trucks, and the brave men and women who answer emergency calls.

Orange County Sheriff John Mina warned that a 6 % reduction in the county’s budget—mirroring the potential impact of the amendment—could mean 234 fewer deputies on the streets. “In every community meeting I have ever been in, in my 36 years, I have never ever heard a resident say, ‘We want less law enforcement,’” Mina said.

Closing Appeals

As Election Day approaches, both sides are making final pleas. Grant urges a “yes” vote to protect families from unaffordable taxes, while Doug Zabin of Orlando Professional Firefighters issued a stark counter‑appeal: “Please vote no on three.”

What Voters Need to Know

Amendment 3 will appear on the ballot in the November 2026 general election. Voters should review the full text of the amendment, consider the projected fiscal impact, and weigh the arguments from both homeowners’ advocates and public‑safety officials before casting their ballots.

Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.