The Florida Legislature placed Amendment 1 on the 2018 general election ballot. If approved by the voters, it will expand the homestead exemption and shift the burden to other taxpayers. The impact of Amendment 1 is expected to cost $644.7 million per year—resulting in either service reductions or tax hikes. Most benefits will only go to a handful of homeowners.
Amendment 1 is not what it seems and our residents deserve to understand its costs and consequences!
The Florida League of Cities has prepared several resources to help you effectively educate citizens on these impacts:
Talking Points
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Ballot Summary and Language
- Sample Resolution
- Tips: Writing a Guest Column/Giving a Speech
- General Communications Tips
- Sample Guest Column
- Sample Speech
- Sample Press Release
- PowerPoint and Outline
Florida’s property tax system is a complicated mess and Amendment 1 makes it worse. The politicians call it a tax break, but it’s really a tax SHIFT that will leave millions of hardworking homeowners with a bigger share of the property tax burden.
As city/county officials, it’s important to take the lead on educating residents about this amendment as we get closer to the November election. Share the facts about Amendment 1 so members of your community can make an informed decision at the polls!
Questions? Contact Amber Hughes at ahughes@flcities.com or 850.701.3621.
