PROPERTY TAX Miami-Dade officials back property tax exemption amendment

Several Miami-Dade elected officials are publicly supporting a proposed constitutional amendment that would significantly increase Florida's homestead property tax exemption, arguing it would provide relief to homeowners without jeopardizing essential services.

Miami-Dade Supervisor of Elections Alina Garcia joined the county's tax collector and property appraiser Monday in endorsing Amendment 3, which would raise the homestead exemption if approved by voters.

"We need to learn how to live within our means," Garcia said.

Supporters say the amendment includes protections for critical government functions.

"Very important, it says that public safety always comes first, so this will not affect public safety, it will not," Garcia said.

Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz has also expressed support for the proposal, taking a position that differs from the Florida Sheriffs Association and several other major statewide law enforcement organizations, which oppose the measure.

Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz is publicly supporting Florida's proposed Amendment 3, putting her at odds with the Florida Sheriffs Association and other law enforcement officials. NBC6's Hatzel Vela reports

Among the opponents is Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, who argues the amendment could ultimately reduce funding available for public safety services.

"This state is almost 24 million people. Do you want less safety? Do you want less security?" Judd said.

Republican lawmakers in Tallahassee are proposing increasing the homestead exemption to $150,000 in 2027 and then to $250,000 in 2028.

Critics argue the measure would create major financial challenges for local governments. Edie Ousley, spokesperson for the Vote No on Amendment 3 campaign, said counties and cities would be forced to make up the lost revenue elsewhere.

"The public safety is going to be hit the hardest, services and infrastructure are going to be cut. This is plain and simply going to be a tax shift, not tax relief," Ousley said.

According to an analysis by the Florida Association of Counties, Broward County could lose more than $300 million by the second year if Amendment 3 passes. Miami-Dade County could face an estimated $445 million reduction in revenue.

Constitutional amendments in Florida require at least 60% voter approval to pass.

Florida voters will decide the fate of Amendment 3 on Election Day.