- Mar 13, 2024
- 1,517
- 35
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has recently floated the idea of compensating for other revenue shortfalls by taxing tourists visiting the state.
During a discussion in Palm Bay, DeSantis suggested "Tax the tourists. Tax some of the foreigners," as reported by the Orlando Sentinel.
His proposal to potentially raise the homestead exemption or even eliminate property taxes entirely in Florida hinges on boosting taxes for visitors. DeSantis believes this shift could ease the tax burden on Floridians.
Critics, however, caution that the state might need to elevate sales taxes to cover the gap.
DeSantis is open to partnering with financially strapped rural counties to cushion them from property tax reductions. He aims to spur economic activity in these areas by offering tax incentives to automotive manufacturing plants, saying, “I would say, pay no tax for 10 years, like no corporate tax if you’re starting a business, if you’re doing manufacturing there."
Also, House Speaker Daniel Perez (R-Miami) has suggested reducing the state sales tax from 6% to 5.26%, with an eye toward a potential property tax vote in 2026.
Currently, there's no formal plan to hike taxes on tourists, but any developments will be reported. What do you think about this prospective tourist tax? Could it backfire by deterring visitors, or is it a smart move to protect residents from higher taxes? Let us know your thoughts!
During a discussion in Palm Bay, DeSantis suggested "Tax the tourists. Tax some of the foreigners," as reported by the Orlando Sentinel.
His proposal to potentially raise the homestead exemption or even eliminate property taxes entirely in Florida hinges on boosting taxes for visitors. DeSantis believes this shift could ease the tax burden on Floridians.
Critics, however, caution that the state might need to elevate sales taxes to cover the gap.
DeSantis is open to partnering with financially strapped rural counties to cushion them from property tax reductions. He aims to spur economic activity in these areas by offering tax incentives to automotive manufacturing plants, saying, “I would say, pay no tax for 10 years, like no corporate tax if you’re starting a business, if you’re doing manufacturing there."
Also, House Speaker Daniel Perez (R-Miami) has suggested reducing the state sales tax from 6% to 5.26%, with an eye toward a potential property tax vote in 2026.
Currently, there's no formal plan to hike taxes on tourists, but any developments will be reported. What do you think about this prospective tourist tax? Could it backfire by deterring visitors, or is it a smart move to protect residents from higher taxes? Let us know your thoughts!
