Rick Scott throws salt on Ron DeSantis’ property tax repeal pitch – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Pexels)
Florida’s senior U.S. senator has signaled clear reservations about Gov. Ron DeSantis’ push to eliminate homestead property taxes. Rick Scott, who served as governor before DeSantis, said he shares the goal of lowering the burden on homeowners yet sees no clear way to replace the revenue without harming core state services. His remarks highlight an unusual public split between two of the state’s most prominent Republicans.
Revenue Replacement Remains the Central Hurdle
Scott emphasized that Florida already runs a lean government. He asked how education, transportation, and environmental programs would continue without the steady income property taxes provide. The senator noted that simply removing the tax leaves a funding gap that must be filled through other means, a step he believes requires careful planning.
During his time as governor, Scott said he addressed rising property values by lowering the millage rate each year. That approach kept taxpayer bills stable without eliminating the tax entirely. He argued that gradual reductions would have prevented the current pressure for a full repeal.
DeSantis Team Outlines a Gradual Rollout
DeSantis has described his proposal as still under study, with a possible phased implementation. Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia has mentioned a six-year glide path that would give both government agencies and residents time to adjust. Lt. Gov. Jay Collins has referenced a shorter one- to three-year window for the change to take effect.
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The governor has also warned that powerful groups will oppose the measure. Teacher unions, local officials, business organizations, and some lawmakers from both parties are expected to resist because they value the predictability of the existing system. DeSantis has until August 1 to finalize language for the November ballot.
Approval Process Sets a High Bar
Any constitutional change must first clear the Legislature. Three-fifths majorities in both the House and Senate are required before the question reaches voters. Once on the ballot, more than 60 percent of participating voters must approve the measure for it to become law.
Scott’s comments arrive amid separate tensions between DeSantis and House Speaker Daniel Perez. The senator has expressed support for Perez, raising the possibility that resistance could surface during legislative debate. Lawmakers and local governments now face uncertainty over how the proposal will ultimately be shaped.
Key Differences in Approach
| Element | Scott’s Past Method | DeSantis Proposal |
|---|---|---|
| Tax Reduction Style | Annual millage cuts tied to rising values | Full elimination over multiple years |
| Revenue Planning | Preserved existing funding streams | Studies underway to identify replacements |
| Timeline | Incremental, year-by-year adjustments | Phased rollout of one to six years |
The contrast shows two distinct strategies for easing property tax pressure. Scott’s record focused on steady, smaller steps that avoided service cuts. DeSantis’ plan aims for a more dramatic shift but must still resolve how to sustain essential programs once the tax disappears.
With the August filing deadline approaching, Florida lawmakers will soon decide whether to advance the measure. Voters, in turn, will weigh whether the promised relief justifies the changes needed to keep state services intact.
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