Bill > H1201

This bill allows property appraisers in Florida to hire outside contractors to examine and audit homestead tax exemptions, which are tax breaks for primary residences. These contracts must specify that contractors cannot impersonate government officials, contact people at unreasonable hours, threaten to collect money, or improperly share private information, and they must clearly identify themselves as third-party auditors working for the property appraiser. If a contractor finds someone improperly claimed a homestead exemption, the property appraiser will decide whether to pursue back taxes and penalties. The bill also clarifies that unpaid tax liens resulting from these audits will be added to the next tax roll and collected like other property taxes, and it establishes that these liens are a primary claim on the property. Finally, it states that this act is of important state interest and will take effect on July 1, 2016.