**Florida Lawmakers Propose New Bills to Cut Rising Property Taxes**
*WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.* — Florida lawmakers are introducing new solutions to tackle the rising property taxes that continue to burden homeowners across the state. State Senator Mack Bernard, a Democrat and former Palm Beach County commissioner, has filed five bills aimed at reducing property taxes for Floridians.
> *WATCH BELOW: State senator from Palm Beach County introduces 5 bills to cut property taxes in Florida*
“On Nov. 1, residents are going to receive their tax bills,” Bernard said. “What relief can we provide these residents?”
Bernard’s five bills, filed on October 23, focus on providing property tax breaks to first-time homesteaders, senior homeowners, and long-time Florida residents. The bills include:
– **S 270:** Homestead Property Exemption for Persons Age 65 or Older
– **S 272:** Homestead Exemption for Persons 65 and Older
– **S 274:** Homestead Property Tax Benefits for Long-term Owners
– **S 276:** Homestead Property Tax Benefits for Long-term Owners and Permanent Residents
– **S 278:** Limitation on the Assessed Value of New Homestead Property
“When we talk about affordability, people often mention insurance reform,” Bernard explained. “But with insurance reform, you still have to wait on that insurance company, and eventually you may get $100. If you’re a senior, we’re going to exempt your property taxes — you will know exactly that savings.”
In addition to senior homeowners, some bills offer tax breaks for first-time homebuyers and long-term residents. Bernard elaborated, “If you’ve been paying a homestead exemption in this state for more than 20 years, then after 20 years we’re going to cap your assessment. Then after 30 years, what we’re saying is we’re going to give you a 50 percent exemption on your property taxes.”
Meanwhile, House Republicans have introduced eight bills aimed at cutting property taxes, but face criticism from Governor Ron DeSantis, who has called those proposals “half measures.” DeSantis insists that only one plan should proceed to the 2026 ballot.
“We have more ideas that haven’t been put on paper yet that are certainly out there, more ways to find relief,” said State Representative Toby Overdorf (R-Stuart), co-chair of a select committee on property taxes.
With Republicans controlling the Capitol, Bernard expressed optimism about moving forward with discussions on how best to help homeowners: “If my bill doesn’t pass, I’m good. All I care about is the residents having relief.”
The future of Bernard’s bills and other property tax relief measures will become clearer when lawmakers convene in January for the legislative session.
https://www.wptv.com/money/real-estate-news/state-sen-mack-bernard-introduces-5-bills-to-cut-property-taxes-for-florida-homeowners