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Florida Amendment 9 - Surviving Spouses Tax Relief

(Meredith Geddings)

Main Sponsors: Sen. Jim Norman (R-Tampa) and Rep. Shawn Harrison (R-Temple Terrace)

Title: Homestead Property Tax Exemption for Surviving Spouse of Military Veteran or First Responder

What It Does: Eliminates property taxes on the homes of surviving spouses of veterans or first responders killed in the line of duty

Proponents:  The measure was unanimously approved by both the Florida House and Senate and has garnered the backing of the Florida Order of Police and the Police Benevolent Association.

Opponents: None known

Budget Impact: Assuming current millage rates, the tax break will cost $600,000 annually —  $300,000 a year for schools and $300,000 a year for non-school local governments beginning in 2013-14 — according to an analysis by the Florida House of Representatives.

» See all of Florida's 2012 Amendments here.