Lawsuits Challenge Florida Property Tax Ballot Language

Three lawsuits have been filed challenging the ballot language of Florida's Amendment 3, a proposed constitutional amendment focused on property tax exemptions. The measure, backed by the state Legislature, would expand non-school homestead property tax exemptions up to $250,000 by 2028 and restrict how local governments utilize property tax funds.

Plaintiffs, including the nonprofit Save Our Voters and former officials Jeff Brandes and Al Lawson, argue that the ballot summary is biased and uses campaign-style language to persuade voters rather than providing a neutral explanation. A hearing on the matter is scheduled for July 29. If a judge finds the language misleading, the Florida Attorney General may be required to rewrite the summary.

Parallel to the legal challenges, opposition groups such as Vote No On 3 have formed to campaign against the measure, warning that the changes could force local governments to cut services. Ron DeSantis, the Governor of Florida, stated he will vote for the amendment but declined to lead the campaign for its passage, noting the proposal did not include everything he had hoped to see. The amendment requires 60% voter approval in November to pass.