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SJR 274

Homestead Property Tax Benefits for Long-term Owners

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mack Bernard

SJR 274 offers tax relief for long-term homeowners by capping property assessments after 20 years and providing a 50% exemption for those owning 30 years or more.

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Bill Summary · SJR 274

Summary of SJR 274: Homestead Property Tax Benefits for Long-term Owners

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: SJR 274
- Title: Homestead Property Tax Benefits for Long-term Owners
- Status: Filed
- Introduced: October 23, 2025
- Classification: Joint Resolution
- Subject: Constitutional amendments, concurrent

Purpose and Intent

SJR 274 aims to amend the Florida State Constitution to provide tax relief for long-term homeowners. The resolution seeks to ensure that the assessed value of homestead properties does not increase after 20 years of ownership and residency. Additionally, it proposes a significant tax exemption for those who have owned and resided in their homestead for 30 years or more.

Key Provisions

The joint resolution proposes the following amendments to the Florida Constitution:

  1. Assessment Limitation After 20 Years:

    • The assessed value of homestead property will not increase after 20 years of continuous ownership and residency.
    • This provision aims to protect long-term homeowners from rising property taxes due to increased property values.
  2. Additional Homestead Tax Exemption:

    • Homeowners who have owned and resided in their property for 30 years or more will receive an additional homestead tax exemption equal to 50% of the assessed value of the property, excluding school district levies.
    • This exemption is designed to provide substantial financial relief to long-term residents.
  3. Effective Date:

    • The amendments will take effect upon approval by the electorate at the next general election or at an earlier special election authorized by law.

Affected Parties

  • Long-term Homeowners: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are homeowners who have lived in their properties for 20 years or more, particularly those who have resided there for 30 years or more.
  • Local Governments: The bill may impact local government revenue from property taxes, as it introduces significant exemptions that could reduce tax income from long-term residents.

Procedural Aspects

  • The resolution will be submitted to voters for approval or rejection at the next general election or at a specially authorized election.
  • The proposed amendments will require a majority vote from the electorate to be enacted.

Conclusion

SJR 274 represents a significant shift in property tax policy in Florida, aiming to provide long-term homeowners with financial relief and stability. By limiting property tax assessments after extended periods of ownership, the bill seeks to support residents who have invested in their communities over decades.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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