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SB 434

Relating to: transparency and regulation of prior authorization requirements under health insurance plans. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rachael Cabral-Guevara and 2 co-sponsors

SB 434 exempts wind-resistant home improvements from property tax assessments, encouraging Florida homeowners to invest in safety upgrades without tax hikes.

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Bill Summary · SB 434

Summary of SB 434: Assessment of Property Used for Residential Purposes

Bill Number: SB 434
Introduced: November 07, 2025
Status: Filed
Sponsor: Senator Leek
Classification: Bill
Subject: Taxation and Finance

Purpose and Intent

SB 434 aims to amend the assessment process for residential properties in Florida by excluding certain improvements made to enhance a property’s resistance to wind damage from the assessed value. This legislation is intended to encourage homeowners to invest in wind-resistant upgrades without facing increased property taxes as a result of those improvements.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces a new section, s. 193.6245, to the Florida Statutes, which includes the following key provisions:

  1. Definition of Improvements: The bill defines "changes or improvements made to improve the property’s resistance to wind damage" to include:

    • Strengthening roof deck attachments
    • Creating secondary water barriers
    • Installing wind-resistant shingles
    • Adding gable-end bracing
    • Reinforcing roof-to-wall connections
    • Installing storm shutters
    • Installing opening protections

  2. Assessment Exemption:

    • When determining the assessed value of residential properties, any increase in just value attributable to the aforementioned wind-resistant improvements will not be considered. This means that homeowners who make these upgrades will not see their property taxes increase as a result.

  3. Applicability:

    • The provisions of this bill apply to changes or improvements made on or after January 1, 2027.

Impact

  • Homeowners: The primary beneficiaries of this bill will be homeowners in Florida who invest in wind-resistant improvements. By excluding these enhancements from property tax assessments, the bill aims to alleviate the financial burden associated with property taxes while promoting safer homes.

  • Local Governments: This legislation may impact local government revenue from property taxes, as the assessed values of improved properties will not reflect the full market value due to the exclusions outlined in the bill.

Timeline

  • Effective Date: The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026. However, the assessment exemption for improvements will only apply to those made after January 1, 2027.

Conclusion

SB 434 represents a significant shift in how Florida assesses residential properties that have undergone wind-resistant improvements. By providing a tax exemption for these enhancements, the bill encourages homeowners to invest in safety measures that can protect their properties from wind damage, ultimately contributing to community resilience against severe weather events.

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

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