This bill amends section 196.081 of the Florida Statutes, which pertains to ad valorem tax exemptions for disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. The key changes include the removal of the limitation on the value of the tax exemption that a surviving spouse can transfer to a new residence. Previously, the exemption could not exceed the amount granted from the most recent ad valorem tax roll; this restriction has been eliminated. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the tax exemption is considered granted as of the date when the applicant became eligible, rather than from the date of the original application.

The bill also maintains the requirement that the surviving spouse must hold legal or beneficial title to the homestead, permanently reside there, and not remarry in order to qualify for the exemption. If the surviving spouse sells the property, they can transfer the exemption to a new primary residence without the previous cap on the amount. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.