UNF PORL Poll: Property Tax Amendment Support Sinks When Voters Hear Fiscal Estimate
A new poll shows that support for a proposed Florida constitutional amendment to phase out property taxes drops significantly when voters learn it could create an $11.8 billion shortfall in municipal budgets. The poll also found strong opposition among Florida voters to the construction of AI data centers in their communities.
A new poll from the University of North Florida (UNF) Public Opinion Research Lab reveals that support for a proposed constitutional amendment in Florida, aiming to phase out most property taxes on homesteaded homes, significantly decreases when voters are informed of its potential fiscal impact. Initially, 61% of likely midterm voters supported the measure, just above the 60% threshold required for constitutional amendments.
However, when respondents were told the amendment could create an $11.8 billion shortfall in municipal budgets over two years, support dropped to 45%, with opposition rising to 47%. The poll's findings are particularly relevant given an ongoing lawsuit concerning whether voters should be informed of the proposal
Separately, the poll also highlighted voter sentiment on other issues, including a near even split on the increased use of artificial intelligence, with 49% supporting and 49% opposing. Significantly, opposition was much stronger regarding the infrastructure required for AI, with 68% of respondents stating they would oppose the construction of an AI data center in their local community.