The bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes related to homestead tax exemptions. Notably, it specifies that maintenance or repair of homestead property, including roof or window replacement, will not be classified as a change, addition, or improvement that would affect property assessment. Additionally, the bill revises the penalties and interest rates applicable to property owners who unlawfully received a homestead exemption. Specifically, it replaces the previous 15 percent interest per annum and a 50 percent penalty on taxes exempted with a new structure that includes interest at a rate set forth in s. 213.235 and a penalty of three times that interest rate, not to exceed 50 percent of the unpaid taxes for each year.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the procedures for property appraisers to record tax liens against properties when exemptions were improperly granted, ensuring that property owners are notified and given 30 days to pay any owed taxes before a lien is filed. The changes aim to streamline the process and reduce fraudulent claims while clarifying the conditions under which property assessments can be adjusted. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1545 Filed: 193.155, 196.011, 196.075, 196.161