Desantis Proposes Homestead Exemption Increase, "Second Amendment Summer"

TALLAHASSEE, Florida - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has introduced a state budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026 named 'Focus on Fiscal Responsibility'. This budget proposes a reduction in state spending by $3 billion compared to the previous year and the elimination of over 740 government positions. 

Key elements include increased compensation for law enforcement, additional funding for teacher salaries, and a "Second Amendment Summer" sales tax holiday as part of his 2025-26 budget proposal. This initiative would exempt firearms, ammunition, and related accessories from sales tax from May 26 to July 4, 2025. 

This proposal is part of a broader set of tax relief measures, which also include tax holidays for back-to-school supplies, disaster preparedness, and marine fuel for boaters and anglers.

Increased Homestead Exemption 

DeSantis also proposed a significant increase in the homestead exemption, which currently stands at up to $50,000 for Florida homeowners on their primary residence. This proposal aims to provide tax relief amidst rising home prices and insurance costs. 

Implementing such changes would require amending Florida's Constitution, which means it would likely need to go before voters in the next election cycle, possibly in 2026. DeSantis mentioned working with legislators over the next year and a half to craft this overhaul.

Governor DeSantis Proposes the ‘Focus on Fiscal Responsibility’ State Budget https://t.co/ReIRdH9mSi

— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) February 3, 2025