Florida Policy Index

Florida’s current property tax debate is not new—it builds on a policy framework first seriously advanced nearly two decades ago. As Florida House Speaker in 2007, Marco Rubio proposed one of the most ambitious property tax overhauls in state history: eliminating property taxes on homesteaded properties entirely.

Republican lawmakers are pushing the largest property tax relief package in years — and the battle lines are already drawn between the Legislature, local governments, and Democrats warning of revenue impacts.

Florida lawmakers are exploring major property tax reforms, including eliminating homestead property taxes, expanding senior exemptions up to $1 million, and dissolving outdated special taxing districts. A House committee will review proposals ahead of the 2026 legislative session.

Florida legislative proposals HB 901 and SB 976 tighten procedures around the use of court-appointed psychologists in family court cases to promote fairness and accountability.

Florida AG Ashley Moody, joined by 41 other state attorneys general, is urging congressional leaders to pass critical legislation.

The legislation represents a significant change in Florida law. For decades, regulation of smoking had been largely preempted to the state, preventing local governments from adopting their own restrictions on smoking in public outdoor spaces. HB 105 creates a limited exception by allowing local governments to adopt ordinances restricting the use of cigarettes and electronic smoking devices at public beaches and parks within their jurisdictions.