Bill > S1664

This bill introduces new requirements for local option taxes in Florida, focusing on taxes levied by counties and municipalities. The legislation mandates that existing taxes which were in effect on June 30, 2025, must be renewed or reenacted through a referendum by January 1, 2033, or their existing expiration date, whichever is later. Any new or renewed tax must have a specific expiration date and require subsequent voter approval in a referendum. For taxes used to service bond indebtedness, the ordinance must specify the purposes of the bonds, ensure the bond duration does not exceed 30 years, and the referendum ballot must include a brief description of the bond purposes. The bill also includes protections for existing bond holders, ensuring that the new requirements will not impair their rights or the counties' obligations for bonds issued before July 1, 2025. These changes apply to various types of local taxes, including tourist development taxes, local option food and beverage taxes, and discretionary sales surtaxes, with the goal of increasing transparency and ensuring ongoing voter input on local tax measures. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance

Community Affairs (S), Finance and Tax (S)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1664