Judge Criticizes Ballot Language for Amendment 3 on Property Taxes

A Tallahassee judge addressed the biased wording of Amendment 3. This proposal aims to reduce property taxes in Florida. The ballot language needs revising for voters to make an informed choice.

Leon County Circuit Judge David Frank declared the language defective. He described it as political rhetoric rather than neutral explanation. His ruling covered 18 pages.

Frank criticized the amendment’s title, “Save Our Homes From Excessive Property Taxes.” According to him, it resembled a political slogan. Additionally, he noted that the summary on the ballot misleads voters.

“Voters are entitled to a fair, clear, accurate and non-misleading ballot statement,” Frank wrote.

The amendment originated from Governor Ron DeSantis. It proposes increasing the homestead exemption to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028. Another change involves reducing the annual cap on assessment increases from 10% to 5% for non-homestead properties.

The Republican Legislature maintains funding for public schools within the tax bills. After this change, DeSantis refrained from fully supporting the proposal. He remarked that it was not his initial suggestion.

A group named Save Our Voters From Misleading Ballot Language challenged the proposal legally. It includes former lawmakers from both parties. Attorney General James Uthmeier has a deadline to modify the ballot language.

Judge Frank highlighted numerous issues with the ballot. It used subheads that he considered inaccurate. He stated that the amendment may reduce revenue for essential services like police and fire departments.

The summary hints at fairness, but Frank pointed out its discriminatory effects. Renters could face increased costs. New residents after 2026 might not benefit immediately from the homestead exemption.

Significantly, the amendment would alter the home rule concept. This principle allows local governments to use property tax revenues. Frank indicated that it gives the Legislature control over tax spending.

Voters will decide in November if the revised amendment appears on the ballot. A clear proposal would enable them to understand its implications better.

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