Florida's Amendment 3 Asks Voters to Raise the Homestead Tax Exemption

Florida voters are being asked whether to raise the amount of home value exempt from homestead property taxes. Amendment 3, a proposed change to the state constitution, would increase that exemption from $50,000 to as much as $250,000 over the next two years, according to NPR.

The state's text of the measure says the exemption would rise to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028 for all non-school taxes. After 2028, the exemption would be adjusted for inflation. The measure's full ballot title covers homestead tax exemptions, property assessments and spending restrictions.

Homestead exemptions lower the taxable value of a home, which lowers the property tax bill. Because the increase applies to non-school taxes, local governments that depend on property tax revenue would lose money. NPR reported that the amendment would cut billions of dollars in revenue from local government budgets. It also reported that, if the measure passes, some Florida jurisdictions could functionally eliminate all non-school homestead property taxes over time.

Florida does not have individual income or estate taxes, so property taxes are one of the main ways local services are paid for in the state. NPR reported that critics of the amendment have cautioned it could lead to cuts to public services and infrastructure and to a weaker social safety net.

Supporters and opponents are working to shape how voters see the question. Volunteers with Florida Rising knocked on doors in Jacksonville to encourage residents to vote no on the property tax cut.

The push for property tax relief is not limited to Florida. According to an analysis by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, 11 states have reined in property taxes so far in 2026.