Sen. Jonathan Martin Files Bill to Eliminate Property Taxes Statewide

A Florida lawmaker filed legislation that would order a study on eliminating property taxes in the state.

Sen. Jonathan Martin (R-Fort Myers) championed SB 852 on Tuesday.

Under SB 852, the Office of Economic and Demographic Research “shall conduct a study to establish a framework to eliminate property taxes." The bill further calls to “replace property tax revenues through budget reductions, sales-based consumption taxes, and locally determined consumption taxes authorized by the Legislature."

In addition, the study must include all of the following (at minimum):

• An analysis of the potential impact of eliminating property tax services on public services to include education, infrastructure, and emergency services.
• An assessment of potential housing market changes, including fluctuation in homeownership rates and property values.
• An evaluation of whether a change to consumption-based taxes would make Florida more appealing to businesses compared to other states.
• An analysis of the potential effect of eliminating property taxes on overall economic stability, including consumer behavior and long-term economic growth.

Afterward, the Office of Economic and Demographic Research must report any study findings to the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives by Oct. 1.

In a recent X response, Gov. Ron DeSantis expressed his support for eliminating or reforming property taxes in the state.

"We should put the boldest amendment on the ballot that has a chance of getting that 60%…I agree that taxing land/property is the more oppressive and ineffective form of taxation," DeSantis said.

He also mentioned the proposal would need 60% voter approval under a constitutional amendment.

If passed, SB 852 would take effect on July 1.