Miami voters approved a sweeping property‑tax reduction on Tuesday, with Amendment 3 receiving 62 percent of the vote—just above the 60‑percent threshold needed to become law, according to NBC Miami. The amendment, championed by Governor Ron DeSantis, will raise the homestead exemption from $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027 and to $250,000 in 2028, delivering a significant relief to homeowners across the state.
Two other measures on the ballot failed to meet the required super‑majority. Amendment 1, which would have increased the amount lawmakers could allocate to the state’s budget‑stabilization fund, garnered only 40 percent support. Amendment 2, proposing a $30‑to‑$40 million tax cut for farm equipment and agritourism property, fell short with 58.25 percent approval.
Governor DeSantis praised the passage of Amendment 3 on X, calling it a “big win on Amendment 3 for Florida homeowners!” The governor had spent more than a year touring the state to promote the tax‑cut plan, arguing that rising property valuations were burdening families.
Despite the governor’s endorsement, the amendment faced criticism from a coalition of firefighters, police, emergency‑medical‑technicians, and local officials who warned that the reduction could strain essential services, especially in rural counties. Former state senator Jeff Brandes, a Republican, wrote on X that “Florida passed Amendment 3. The governor and the Legislature own what comes next. They have the responsibility to manage the fallout.” Senate President Ben Albritton and Senator Kathleen Passidomo also voiced concerns that a one‑size‑fits‑all approach might harm community services.
Amendment 3 was crafted by DeSantis’ office and passed by the Florida Legislature during a special session in June. While the governor originally sought to raise the exemption to $250,000 immediately, lawmakers adjusted the proposal to phase the increase and exclude school districts from the larger exemption. The measure qualified for the ballot without requiring the governor’s signature.
Governor DeSantis also took a firm stance against Amendment 1, labeling it “foolish” and criticizing former House Speaker Daniel Perez, whom he called “a testament to our failed former speaker of the House.” DeSantis said the amendment was “deservedly going down in flames.”
What’s next: The amendment’s phased exemption will take effect in 2027 and 2028, reducing property‑tax bills for eligible homeowners. County assessors will begin implementing the new exemption levels, and residents can expect lower tax statements in the coming years.
Sources: nbcmiami.com
