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Bill

SB 276

Relating to: challenges to the validity of administrative rules and making an appropriation. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Julian Bradley and 7 co-sponsors

SB 276 offers long-term homeowners in Florida reduced property tax assessments, promoting housing stability and affordability for permanent residents.

Failed to pass notwithstanding the objections of the Governor pursuant to Joint Rule 82
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Bill Summary · SB 276

Summary of SB 276: Homestead Property Tax Benefits for Long-term Owners and Permanent Residents

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: SB 276
- Title: Homestead Property Tax Benefits for Long-term Owners and Permanent Residents
- Status: Filed
- Introduced: October 23, 2025
- Sponsor: Senator Bernard
- Classification: Bill
- Subject: Social Welfare

Purpose and Intent

SB 276 aims to provide enhanced property tax benefits for long-term homeowners and permanent residents in Florida. The bill seeks to amend existing statutes to ensure that certain properties owned and occupied by individuals as their permanent residence for an extended period are assessed at less than their just value. This is intended to alleviate the financial burden of property taxes on long-term residents, promoting stability and affordability in housing.

Key Provisions

  1. Assessment Changes:

    • The bill amends Section 193.155 of the Florida Statutes, allowing properties owned and used as permanent residences for a specified timeframe to be assessed at less than just value.
    • The assessed value of such properties will be capped and may not increase under certain conditions.

  2. Aggregation of Ownership and Residency:

    • Periods of ownership and residency can be aggregated, meaning that time spent in different properties may count towards eligibility for the benefits.

  3. Record Keeping:

    • Property appraisers will be required to maintain specific records related to the ownership and residency of properties qualifying for these benefits.

  4. New Homestead Exemption:

    • The bill creates a new section (196.078) that specifies a homestead exemption for long-term owners and residents, further clarifying eligibility criteria.

  5. Emergency Rules:

    • The Department of Revenue is authorized to adopt emergency rules to implement the provisions of this act, with specified timeframes for effectiveness and renewal.

  6. Conforming Amendments:

    • Sections 194.011 and 196.011 of the Florida Statutes will be amended to align with the changes introduced by this bill.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • Long-term homeowners and permanent residents in Florida will benefit from reduced property tax assessments.
    • Property appraisers and the Department of Revenue will have new responsibilities regarding record-keeping and rule-making.

  • Financial Implications:

    • The bill aims to provide financial relief to homeowners, potentially leading to increased housing stability and affordability.

Procedural Aspects

  • Filing Date: The bill was filed on October 23, 2025.
  • Contingent Effective Date: The bill includes a contingent effective date, which will be specified upon further legislative action.

This summary provides a clear overview of SB 276, outlining its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on Florida residents and property tax assessments.

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

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