Florida Senate Bill S7074 Analysis / Analysis

                    The Florida Senate 
BILL ANALYSIS AND FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT 
(This document is based on the provisions contained in the legislation as of the latest date listed below.) 
Prepared By: The Professional Staff of the Committee on Finance and Tax  
 
BILL: SPB 7074 
INTRODUCER:  For consideration by the Finance and Tax Committee 
SUBJECT:  Taxation 
DATE: February 19, 2024 
 
 ANALYST STAFF DIRECTOR  REFERENCE  	ACTION 
1. Gross Khan        Pre-meeting 
 
I. Summary: 
SPB 7074: 
 Temporarily exempts from the sales and use tax: 
o “Back-to-School” items including certain clothing, school supplies, learning aids and 
puzzles, and personal computers from July 29, 2024, through August 11, 2024. 
o “Disaster Preparedness” items and supplies necessary for the evacuation of pets, and 
common household consumable items from June 1, 2024, through June 14, 2024, and 
from August 24, 2024, through September 6, 2024. 
o Specific admissions, boating and water activity supplies, camping supplies, fishing 
supplies, general outdoor supplies, residential pool supplies, children’s toys, and 
children’s athletic equipment from July 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. 
o Certain tools and safety equipment from September 1, 2024, through September 7, 2024.  
 The bill makes the following changes to the ad valorem property tax: 
o Extends the time in which a property owner may begin rebuilding homestead property 
and continue to maintain homestead property tax benefits from 3 years to 5 years. 
o Extends the date in which tangible personal property of an electric utility is deemed 
substantially completed. 
o Increases the value of the ad valorem tax exemption for disabled ex-servicemembers 
from $5,000 to $10,000. 
o Relieves property tax taxpayers from owing back taxes under certain circumstances; 
requires the Department of Revenue to produce multi-language forms if requested by a 
property appraiser; and requires property appraisers to include specific additional 
information in a notice of tax lien served upon an owner. 
o Expands the ad valorem tax benefits for renewable energy source devices to include 
facilities used to capture and convert biogas to Renewable Natural Gas. 
 The bill makes the following changes to the corporate income tax: 
o Adopts the internal revenue code as it existed on January 1, 2024. 
o Creates a tax credit for corporations who employ persons with unique abilities. 
o Allows qualifying railroads to apply for Corporate Income Tax credit after the end of the 
applicant’s taxable year. 
REVISED:   BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 2 
 
 The bill makes the following changes to the insurance premiums tax: 
o Exempts flood insurance policies for 1 year.  
o Requires insurers to provide a credit to policyholders for certain insurance policies on 
residential dwellings for 1 year and allows insurers to take a credit against their Insurance 
Premium Tax liability by the amount credited to policyholders. 
o Creates a 1-year state fire marshal assessment and surcharge holiday, and Florida 
Insurance Guaranty Association assessment credit.   
  The bill makes the following changes to the documentary stamp tax: 
o Exempts the tax imposed on certain notes and obligations, valued no greater than $3,500, 
when given to an alarm system contractor. 
o Reduces the maximum amount of documentary stamp tax imposed on Home Equity 
Conversion Mortgages. 
 Other changes made by the bill include: 
o Increasing the cap for the Strong Families Tax Credit program from $20 million to $40 
million beginning in Fiscal Year 2024-2025. 
o Establishing the date in which a taxpayer may submit an application to the Department of 
Revenue for an allocation for a Strong Families Tax Credit and provides that the 
increased allocation limit for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 may be applied for beginning July 1, 
2024. 
o Amending the criteria the Department of Children and Families must follow when 
designating an eligible charitable organization. 
o Increasing the allowance provided to dealers for the collection and remittance of the sales 
tax from a maximum of $30 to $45. 
o Granting an automatic extension of the due date for a corporation or a retail dealer to file 
corporate income tax or sales and use tax returns and tax remittances during a federally 
declared disaster or a state of emergency. 
o Making permanent the distributions from the sales and use tax which must be used for 
certain thoroughbred breeding and racing purposes.  
o Changing the minimum vote threshold needed for the approval of a referendum to levy 
the Local Option Food and Beverage tax in certain cities or towns. 
o Allowing the Indigent Care and Trauma Center Surtax to be levied in a county that is 
consolidated with one or more of its municipalities. 
o Limiting to 25 percent the amount of tourist development tax revenues collected which 
may be used for a single project. 
o Providing for a $15 million annual distribution from the Alcoholic Beverage Taxes to the 
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Florida Shands Cancer Center, 
and Mayo Clinic Cancer Center until 2054. 
 
The bill reduces revenues in total by $901.0 million, which is the sum of $235.1 million 
(recurring), and $665.9 million (pure nonrecurring in Fiscal Year 2024-2025 and reductions 
resulting from certain impacts in future years). See Section V. Fiscal Impact Statement for 
additional information. 
 
Except as otherwise provided, the bill takes effect July 1, 2024. 
  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 3 
 
II. Present Situation: 
Overview of Florida Sales and Use Tax 
Florida levies a 6 percent tax on the sale or rental of most items of tangible personal property,
1
 
admissions,
2
 transient rentals,
3
 and a limited number of services, as well as a 4.5 percent tax on 
commercial leases.
4
 Sales tax is added to the price of the taxable good or service and collected 
from the purchaser at the time of sale.
5
 
 
Counties are authorized to impose local discretionary sales surtaxes in addition to the state sales 
tax.
6
 A surtax applies to “all transactions … subject to the state tax … on sales, use, services, 
rentals, admissions, and other transactions ….”
7
 The discretionary sales surtax rates currently 
levied vary by county in a range of 0.5 to 1.5 percent.
8
 
 
Overview of Florida Property Tax 
The ad valorem tax or “property tax” is an annual tax levied by counties, municipalities, school 
districts, and some special districts. The tax is based on the taxable value of property as of 
January 1 of each year.
9
 The property appraiser annually determines the “just value”
10
 of 
property within the taxing authority and then applies relevant exclusions, assessment limitations, 
and exemptions to determine the property’s “taxable value.”
11
 Property tax bills are mailed in 
November of each year based on the previous January 1 valuation. Taxes are due by March 31 of 
the following year, but taxpayers receive a discount if they pay early.
12
 
 
                                                
1
 Section 212.05(1)(a)1.a., F.S. 
2
 Section 212.04(1)(b), F.S. 
3
 Section 212.03(1)(a), F.S. 
4
 Section 212.031, F.S. The 4.5 percent rate is required to be reduced to 2 percent beginning the second month after the 
Department of Revenue is notified by the Office of Economic and Demographic Research that the Unemployment 
Compensation Trust Fund balance exceeds $4,071,519,600. Which is currently estimated to be met in March 2024. See The 
Office of Economic and Demographic Research, Florida Legislature, Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund, January 
2024, available at http://edr.state.fl.us/Content/conferences/unemployment-compensation-trust-
fund/January2024ForecastSummary.pdf (last visited Feb. 14, 2024). 
5
 Section 212.07(2), F.S. 
6
 Section 212.055, F.S. 
7
 Section 212.054(2)(a), F.S. 
8
 FLA. DEP’T OF REVENUE, Discretionary Sales Surtax Information for Calendar Year 2024, available at 
https://floridarevenue.com/Forms_library/current/dr15dss.pdf (last visited Feb. 14, 2024). 
9
 Both real property and tangible personal property are subject to tax. Section 192.001(12), F.S., defines “real property” as 
land, buildings, fixtures, and all other improvements to land. Section 192.001(11)(d), F.S., defines “tangible personal 
property” as all goods, chattels, and other articles of value capable of manual possession and whose chief value is intrinsic to 
the article itself. 
10
 Property must be valued at “just value” for purposes of property taxation, unless the Florida Constitution provides 
otherwise. FLA. CONST. art VII, s. 4. Just value has been interpreted by the courts to mean the fair market value that a willing 
buyer would pay a willing seller for the property in an arm’s-length transaction. See, e.g., Walter v. Schuler, 176 So. 2d 81 
(Fla. 1965); Deltona Corp. v. Bailey, 336 So. 2d 1163 (Fla. 1976); S. Bell Tel. & Tel. Co. v. Dade Cnty., 275 So. 2d 4 (Fla. 
1973). 
11
 See ss. 192.001(2) and (16), F.S. 
12
 Section 197.162, F.S.; see also Fla. Dep’t of Revenue, Tax Collector Calendar, available at 
https://floridarevenue.com/property/Documents/tccalendar.pdf (last visited Feb. 14, 2024).  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 4 
 
The Florida Constitution prohibits the state from levying ad valorem taxes
13
 and limits the 
Legislature’s authority to provide for property valuations at less than just value, unless expressly 
authorized.
14
 
 
Overview of Florida Corporate Income Tax 
Florida levies a 5.5 percent tax on certain income of corporations and financial institutions doing 
business in Florida.
15
 Florida utilizes the taxable income determined for federal income tax 
purposes as a starting point to determine the total amount of Florida corporate income tax due.
16
 
This means that a corporation paying taxes in Florida generally receives the same benefits from 
deductions allowed when determining taxable income for federal tax purposes as it does when 
determining taxable income for state taxation purposes. 
 
Florida provides various tax benefits for certain corporate activities. These tax benefits take the 
form of subtractions, which reduce the amount of income that is subject to tax, exemptions, 
which prohibit taxation on certain levels of income, and tax credits, which are a dollar-for-dollar 
reduction of a corporation’s tax liability. 
 
Overview of Florida Documentary Stamp Tax 
Florida levies a documentary stamp tax on certain documents executed, delivered, or recorded in 
Florida. The most common examples are documents that transfer an interest in Florida real 
property, such as deeds and mortgages, and written obligations to pay money, such as promissory 
notes.
17
 
 
The tax on deeds and other documents related to real property is 70 cents per $100,
18
 and the tax 
on written obligations to pay money is 35 cents per $100.
19
 The tax levied on written obligations 
to pay money may not exceed $2,450.
20
 
 
Overview of Insurance Premium Tax  
Florida imposes a 1.75 percent tax on most Florida insurance premiums, a 1 percent tax on 
annuity premiums; and a 1.6 percent tax on self-insurers.
21
 In addition, some insurers pay a 
retaliatory tax to the extent the insurer's state of domicile would impose a greater tax burden than 
Florida imposes.  
 
Specific current law discussion related to the provisions of bill are provided in Section III. 
Effects of Proposed Changes. 
                                                
13
 FLA. CONST. art. VII, s. 1(a). 
14
 See FLA. CONST. art. VII, s. 4. 
15
 Section 220.11(2), F.S. 
16
 Section 220.12, F.S. 
17
 Fla. Dep’t of Revenue, Florida Documentary Stamp Tax, available at 
https://floridarevenue.com/taxes/taxesfees/pages/doc_stamp.aspx (last visited Feb. 19, 2024). 
18
 Section 201.02(1)(a), F.S. 
19
 Sections 201.07 and 201.08(1)(b), F.S. 
20
 Section 201.08(1)(a), F.S. 
21
 Sections 624.509, F.S. and s. 624.4621, F.S.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 5 
 
 
III. Effect of Proposed Changes: 
Section 1 – Tourist Development Tax Project Expenditure Limitation 
Present Situation 
Counties are authorized to levy five separate taxes on transient rental transactions (tourist 
development taxes or TDTs).
22
 Depending on a county’s eligibility to levy such taxes, the 
maximum potential tax rate varies: 
 The original TDT may be levied at the rate of 1 or 2 percent.
23
 
 An additional 1 percent tax may be levied by counties who have previously levied the 
original TDT at least three years.
24
 
 A high tourism impact tax may be levied at an additional 1 percent.
25
 
 A professional sports franchise facility tax may be levied up to an additional 1 percent.
26
 
 An additional professional sports franchise facility tax no greater than 1 percent may be 
imposed by a county that has already levied the professional sports franchise facility tax.
27
 
  
Each county that levies tourist development taxes is required to have a tourist development 
council consisting of county residents who are appointed by the county governing board. The 
tourist development council makes recommendations to the county governing board for the 
effective operation of special projects or for uses of the TDT revenue.
28
 
 
Additionally, for the original 1 or 2 percent TDT, the tourist development council must submit a 
tourist development plan to the governing board of the county. The plan must be submitted 
before a referendum to enact or renew the ordinance levying the tax.
29
 The plan must include:  
 The anticipated net tax revenue to be derived by the county for the two years following 
the tax levy. 
 The tax district in which the enactment or renewal of the ordinance levying and imposing 
the TDT is proposed. 
 A list of the proposed uses of the tax by specific project or special use and the 
approximate cost or expense allocation for each specific project or special use.
30
  
 
After submission of the plan to the governing board of the county, the governing board must 
adopt the plan as part of the ordinance levying the tax.
31
 The ordinance must be approved by a 
                                                
22
 Section 125.0104, F.S. “Transient rental” is consider to be the rental or lease of any accommodation for a term of six 
months or less. See s. 125.0104(3)(a)1., F.S. 
23
 Section 125.0104(3)(c), F.S. Sixty-two of the 67 counties levy this tax. Each levies the maximum rate of 2 percent. 
24
 Section 125.0104(3)(d), F.S. Fifty-six of the eligible 59 counties levy this tax. 
25
 Section 125.0104(3)(m), F.S. Ten of the 14 eligible counties levy this tax. 
26
 Section 125.0104(3)(l), F.S. Forty-six of the 67 counties levy this tax. 
27
 Section 125.0104(3)(n), F.S. Thirty-six of the eligible 65 counties levy this tax. 
28
 Section 125.0104(4)(e), F.S. 
29
 Section 125.0104(4)(c), F.S. The provisions found in s. 125.0104(4)(a)-(d), F.S., do not apply to the additional 1% tax, 
high tourism impact tax, the professional sports franchise facility tax, or the additional professional sports franchise facility 
tax. 
30
 Id. 
31
 Section 125.0104(4)(d), F.S.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 6 
 
countywide referendum held at a general election.
32
 The plan may not be substantially amended 
after the enactment or renewal of the ordinance levying the TDT, except by ordinance enacted by 
an affirmative vote of a majority plus one additional member of the governing board.
33
 
 
The revenues derived from TDTs may be used for:
34
 
 The acquisition, construction, extension, enlargement, remodeling, repair, improvement, 
maintenance, operation, or promotion of certain publicly owned convention centers, sports 
stadiums, sports arenas, coliseums, auditoriums, aquariums, or museums. Revenue may also 
be used to secure revenue bonds for these purposes.  
 Promoting certain publicly owned zoos. Revenue may also be used to secure revenue bonds 
for this purpose.  
 Promoting and advertising tourism. 
 Funding convention bureaus, tourist bureaus, tourist information centers, and news bureaus 
as county agencies, or by contract with chambers of commerce or similar associations in the 
county. 
 Financing beach park facilities or beach, channel, estuary, or lagoon improvement, 
maintenance, renourishment, restoration, and erosion control.
35
 Revenue may also be used to 
secure revenue bonds for these purposes.  
 In counties with populations less than 950,000, the acquisition, construction, extension, 
enlargement, remodeling, repair, or improvement, maintenance, operation, or promotion of 
certain publicly owned zoos, fishing piers, or nature centers. 
 If certain requirements are met, acquiring, constructing, extending, enlarging, remodeling, 
repairing, improving, maintaining, operating, or financing public facilities
36
 if the public 
facilities are needed to increase tourist-related business activities and are recommended by 
the county tourist development council. 
 If certain requirements are met, reimbursing public safety expenses, including emergency 
medical and law enforcement services, which are needed to address impacts related to 
increased tourism and visitors to an area. 
 
Proposed Changes 
The bill prohibits a tourist development plan from allocating more than 25 percent of the tax 
revenue received for a fiscal year to fund an individual project unless the governing board of the 
county approves the use by a supermajority vote. 
 
                                                
32
 Sections 125.0104(4)(a) and (6), F.S. 
33
 Section 125.0104(4)(d), F.S. 
34
 Section 125.0104(5), F.S. 
35
 In counties with populations less than 100,000, up to 10 percent of TDT revenues may be used for financing beach park 
facilities. See s. 125.0104(5)(a)5., F.S. 
36
 Public facilities include major capital improvements that have a life expectancy of 5 or more years, including, but not 
limited to, transportation, sanitary sewer, solid waste, drainage, potable water, and pedestrian facilities. See s. 
125.0104(5)(a)6., F.S.   BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 7 
 
Sections 2 and 3 – Construction Work in Progress 
Present Situation 
Personal property, for property tax purposes, is divided into four categories: household goods, 
intangible personal property, inventory, and tangible personal property.
37
 
 
Tangible personal property is assessed at just value on January 1, except for “construction work 
in progress” if it is not substantially completed.
38
 “Construction work in progress” is deemed 
substantially completed when it is connected with the preexisting, taxable, operational system or 
facility.
39
 
 
“Tangible personal property” means all goods, chattels, and other articles of value capable of 
manual possession and whose chief value is intrinsic to the article itself. Excluded from the 
definition are motor vehicles, boats, airplanes, trailers, trailer coaches and mobile homes, which 
are subject to a license tax, and inventory and household goods.
40
 
 
“Construction work in progress” consists of those items of tangible personal property commonly 
known as fixtures, machinery, and equipment when in the process of being installed in new or 
expanded improvements to real property and whose value is materially enhanced upon 
connection or use with a preexisting, taxable, operational system or facility.
41
 
 
Proposed Changes 
The bill establishes the date in which tangible personal property constructed or installed by an 
electric utility is deemed substantially completed to be the earlier of: 
 When all permits or approvals required for commercial operation have been received or 
approved; or  
 One year after being connected to preexisting, taxable, operational system or facility. 
 
These changes first apply to the 2024 tax roll. 
 
Sections 4, 11, and 12 – Extend the Time to Commence Rebuild of Homestead Property 
Damaged or Destroyed 
Present situation 
Homestead Exemption for Damaged Property  
 
When homestead property is damaged or destroyed by misfortune or calamity and the property is 
uninhabitable on January 1 after the damage or destruction occurs, a property may continue to 
receive a homestead exemption if: 
                                                
37
 Section 192.001(11), F.S. 
38
 Section 192.042(2), F.S. 
39
 Section 192.001(11)(d). F.S. 
40
 Id. 
41
 Id.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 8 
 
 The property owner notifies the property appraiser that he or she intends to repair or rebuild 
the property and live in the property as his or her primary residence after the property is 
repaired or rebuilt.  
 The property owner does not claim a homestead exemption on any other property or 
otherwise violate the requirements for homestead exemption.  
 The property owner begins repairing or rebuilding the homestead property within 3 years 
after January 1 following the damage or destruction.
42
 
 
Assessment of Damaged Homestead Property  
 
Under current law, changes, additions, or improvements to homestead property are assessed at 
just value on January 1 after the changes, additions, or improvements are substantially 
completed. 
 
However, changes, additions, or improvements that replace all or a portion of homestead 
property damaged or destroyed by misfortune or calamity, including ancillary improvements,  
shall be assessed upon substantial completion using the homestead property’s assessed value as 
of the January 1 immediately before the date on which the damage or destruction was sustained, 
which may be grown in intervening years. Homestead property is eligible for such assessment if: 
 The square footage of the homestead property as changed or improved does not exceed 110 
percent of the square footage of the homestead property before the damage or destruction; or 
 The total square footage of the homestead property as changed or improved does not exceed 
1,500 square feet. 
 
Property changed or improved in excess of these thresholds must be assessed at just value. 
 
The changes, additions, or improvements must be commenced within 3 years after the January 1 
following the damage or destruction of the homestead.
43
 
 
Proposed changes 
The bill extends from 3 years to 5 years the time in which commencement to rebuild homestead 
property must begin to maintain a “pre-damage” assessment and exemption. 
 
These changes first apply to the 2025 tax roll. 
 
Sections 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, and 17 – Property Tax Payment Relief and Notification 
Requirements 
Present Situation  
Errors in Property Assessment 
Errors made in the assessment of homestead, non-homestead residential, and nonresidential 
property may be corrected in the following ways: 
 
                                                
42
 Section 196.031(7), F.S. 
43
 Section 193.155(4), F.S.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 9 
 
 Errors which are due to a material mistake of fact concerning an essential characteristic of 
the property require the recalculation of the just value and assessed value for every year in 
which the error existed, including the year in which the mistake occurred.
44
 
 Changes, additions, or improvements to the property that are not assessed at just value as of 
the first January 1 after they were substantially completed, requires the property appraiser to 
determine the just value for such changes, additions, or improvements for the year they were 
substantially completed. Assessments for subsequent years shall be corrected in a manner 
consistent with annual assessment limitations provided under the law.
45
 
 An assessment for property which was not taxed, in other words, property that “escaped 
taxation,” may be corrected by one of the methods described above.
46
 
 
Florida courts have upheld the authority of the Legislature, through appropriate legislation, to 
provide for the collection of back taxes on taxable property that has escaped taxation for 
previous years through an error of the property appraiser or the failure of the property owner to 
properly pay.
47
 When a property has escaped taxation, assessments for back taxes may only be 
made for periods within the previous 3 years.
48
 To settle the question of the meaning of “escaped 
taxation,” The Florida Supreme Court held, “[p]roperty has ‘escaped taxation,’ for purposes of 
statute permitting appraisers to assess back taxes, when it is not taxed, not when it is under-taxed 
because of a mistaken under-valuation.”
49
 
 
Improper Receipt of an Assessment Limitation 
The homestead assessment limitation known as “Save Our Homes,” limits the amount by which 
the property’s assessed value may increase annually to the lessor of 3 percent or the change in 
the consumer price index during the previous calendar year.
50
 The Save Our Homes limitation is 
applied to the assessment made for school districts and non-school districts. 
 
The amount by which non-homestead residential and nonresidential property may increase from 
the prior assessment is limited to 10 percent of the prior year. This limitation is applied only to 
non-school district assessments.
51
 
 
Upon a determination by the property appraiser, a person improperly receiving an assessment 
limitation on homestead, non-homestead residential, and nonresidential property for any year 
within the prior 10 years will receive a notice of intent to record a tax lien against any property in 
the county owned by the person. The notice must identify the property. Such property that is 
situated in this state is subject to payment of the unpaid taxes, plus a penalty of 50 percent of the 
unpaid taxes for each year and 15 percent interest per year. The property appraiser must give the 
                                                
44
 Sections 193.155(9)(a), 193.1554(9)(a), and 193.1555(9)(a), F.S. 
45
 Sections 193.155(9)(b), 193.1554(9)(b), and 193.1555(9)(b), F.S. 
46
 Sections 193.155(9)(c), 193.1554(9)(c), and 193.1555(9)(c), F.S. 
47
 See, e.g., Robbins v. Kornfield, 834 So. 2d 955 (Fla. 3d DCA 2003); State v. Beardsley, 94 So. 660 (Fla. 1922); Wade v. 
Murrhee, 78 So. 536 (Fla. 1918); Bloxham v. Florida Cent. & P.R. Co., 17 So. 902 (Fla. 1895). 
48
 Section 193.092, F.S. 
49
 Furst v. DeFrances, 332 So. 3d 951 (Fla. 2021). 
50
 FLA. CONST. art. VII, s. 4(d) 
51
 FLA. CONST. art. VII, s. 4(g) and (h).  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 10 
 
property owner 30 days to pay taxes and applicable penalties and interest before the property 
appraiser may file a lien.
52
 
 
When a person who is entitled to a homestead exemption, inadvertently receives homestead 
assessment limitations following a change of ownership, the assessment is corrected by way of 
recalculating the just value and assessed value for every year in which the error existed. In such 
case, the person is not required to pay the unpaid taxes, penalties, or interest.
53
 
 
Penalty and interest is not assessed when an assessment limitation is granted by the property 
appraiser as a result of a clerical mistake or an omission.
54
 
 
Homestead Exemptions Erroneously Granted 
Section 196.161, F.S., provides a mechanism for the recovery of taxes from persons erroneously 
granted a homestead exemption. Subsection (1)(b) provides that if the property appraiser 
determines that a person was not entitled to a homestead exemption for any time within the prior 
10 years, then the property appraiser must record a tax lien against the property. In addition to 
the property being liable for all exempted taxes, there is a penalty of 50 percent of the unpaid 
taxes for each year, plus 15 percent interest per year. The property appraiser must give the 
property owner 30 days to pay taxes and applicable penalties and interest before the property 
appraiser may file a lien. However, penalties and interest are not due when the exemption was 
improperly granted as a result of a clerical error or omission by the property appraiser. 
 
Application for Exemption 
An annual application for exemption must be made by a person or organization who, on January 
1, has the legal title to real or personal property which is entitled to exemption from taxation as a 
result of its ownership and use. Applications must be filed by March 1 with the county property 
appraiser, listing and describing the property for which exemption is claimed and certifying its 
ownership and use.
55
 
 
Annual application for exemption may be waived at the request of the property appraiser and by 
a majority vote of a county’s governing body.
56
 Refiling an application is required when any 
property granted an exemption: 
 Is sold or disposed of; 
 When the ownership changes in any manner; 
 When the homestead exemption applicant ceases to use the property as a homestead; or 
 When the status of the owner changes so as to change the exemption status of the property.
57
 
 
                                                
52
 Sections 193.155(10), 193.1554(10), and 193.1555(10), F.S. 
53
 Section 193.155(10), F.S. 
54
 Section 193.092, F.S. 
55
 Section 193.031(1)(a), F.S. 
56
 Section 193.011(9)(a), F.S. A county may not waive the annual application or statement requirement for the Economic 
Development Ad Valorem Tax Exemption. Id. See also s. 196.1995, F.S. 
57
 Section 193.031(9)(a), F.S.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 11 
 
Governing bodies, in their deliberations on whether to waive the requirement of annual 
application, must consider the possibility of fraudulent exemption claims which may occur due 
to the waiver.
58
 
 
A property owner granted an exemption who is no longer required to file an annual application 
must notify the property appraiser promptly whenever the use of the property or the status or 
condition of the owner changes so as to change the exempt status of the property. If any property 
owner fails to notify the property appraiser of such changes and the property appraiser 
determines that for any year within the prior 10 years the owner was not entitled to receive such 
exemption, the owner of the property is subject to the taxes exempted plus 15 percent interest per 
year and a penalty of 50 percent of the taxes exempted.
59
 
 
Homestead Exemption Forms 
The Department of Revenue (department) must provide forms which are to be filed by taxpayers 
claiming to be entitled to a homestead exemption.
60
 
 
The forms must require the taxpayer to furnish certain information to the property appraiser for 
the purpose of determining that the taxpayer is a permanent resident.
61
 
 
The forms must also contain the following: 
 Notice of the tax lien which can be imposed pursuant to s. 196.161. 
 Notice that information contained in the application will be provided to the department and 
may also be provided to any state in which the applicant has previously resided. 
 A requirement that the applicant read or have read to him or her the contents of the form.
62
 
 
Notice of Proposed Property Taxes and Non-Ad Valorem Assessments 
Property appraisers must prepare and deliver to each taxpayer to be listed on the current year’s 
assessment roll a notice of proposed property taxes. The notice shows the taxpayer’s property 
taxes in the preceding year, his taxes for the current year if no budget changes are made, and his 
taxes for the current year under the proposed budgets and millage rates of the taxing 
authorities.
63
 
 
If requested by the local governing board levying non-ad valorem assessments and agreed to by 
the property appraiser, the notice may contain a notice of proposed or adopted non-ad valorem 
assessments.
64
 
 
                                                
58
 Id. 
59
 Id. 
60
 Section 196.121(1), F.S. 
61
 Section 196.121(2), F.S. Section 196.012(16), F.S., defines “permanent resident” as a person who has established a 
permanent residence. The term “permanent residence” means that place where a person has his or her true, fixed, and 
permanent home and principal establishment to which, whenever absent, he or she has the intention of returning. A person 
may have only one permanent residence at a time; and, once a permanent residence is established in a foreign state or 
country, it is presumed to continue until the person shows that a change has occurred. 
62
 Section 196.121(3), F.S. 
63
 Section 200.069, F.S. 
64
 Section 200.065(10)(a), F.S.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 12 
 
Proposed changes 
Errors in Property Assessments 
The bill makes the following changes to the provisions on how a property appraiser must correct 
the assessment of homestead, non-homestead residential, and nonresidential property: 
 When the error is due to a material mistake of fact concerning an essential characteristic of 
the property, the bill requires that the recalculated values shall be first applied to the tax roll 
in the year the mistake is discovered. No back taxes shall be due for any year as a result of 
recalculations under this paragraph. 
 When the error results from changes, additions, or improvements to property not being 
assessed at just value of the first January 1 after it was substantially completed, the bill 
provides that if a building permit was required and had not been issued by the county, the 
assessment may be corrected from the later of the year following substantial completion or 
10 years prior to the error being discovered. 
 When property has not been assessed, the bill repeals the authority to issue back assessments. 
 
Improper Receipt of an Assessment Limitation 
The bill includes additional information that must be provided to a taxpayer when the property 
appraiser serves upon him or her a notice of tax lien. The property appraiser must include with 
such notice information explaining why the owner is not entitled to the limitation, for which 
years unpaid taxes, penalties, and interest are due, and the manner in which unpaid taxes, 
penalties, and interest have been calculated. 
 
For homestead, non-homestead residential, and nonresidential property, the bill states that a 
person need not pay the unpaid taxes, penalties, or interest if the property appraiser improperly 
granted the property assessment limitation as a result of a clerical mistake or an omission. 
 
Homestead Exemptions Erroneously Granted 
The bill includes additional information that must be provided to a taxpayer when the property 
appraiser serves upon him or her a notice of tax lien. The information must explain why the 
owner is not entitled to the homestead exemption, for which years unpaid taxes, penalties, and 
interest are due, and the manner in which unpaid taxes, penalties, and interest have been 
calculated. 
 
Application for Exemption 
The bill states that if an exemption is granted as a result of a clerical mistake or an omission by 
the property appraiser, the taxpayer need not pay the unpaid taxes, penalties, or interest. 
 
Homestead Exemption Forms 
The bill adds an additional criterion that must be included on the form created by the department 
and submitted to the property appraiser by the taxpayer. The form must include examples of 
activities that may affect eligibility for homestead exemptions, including, but not limited to, 
rental of homestead property or establishment of permanent residency at another property. 
 
Notice of Proposed Property Taxes and Non-Ad Valorem Assessments  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 13 
 
Rather than the local governing board levying non-ad valorem assessments requesting that the 
property appraiser include such non-ad valorem assessments, the bill allows the property 
appraiser to make such request of the local governing board. 
 
In addition, the bill creates s. 195.028, F.S., whereby, upon the request of a property appraiser, 
the department must develop multi-language versions of forms prescribed by the department, if 
translation resources are reasonably available. Such forms must contain English and may include 
one or more requested languages other than English. The department shall develop a flyer or 
brochure that shall be posted to the department’s and each property appraiser’s website 
informing taxpayers of examples of activities that may affect eligibility for ad valorem property 
tax exemptions, including but not limited to, rental of homestead property or establishment of 
permanent residency at another property. 
 
These changes first apply to the 2025 tax roll. 
 
Sections 7 and 8 – Renewable Energy Source Devices – Biogas 
Present Situation 
Limitations on Assessment of Real Property 
Current law prohibits a property appraiser who is determining the assessed value of real property 
from considering any increase in the just value of residential property or 80 percent of the just 
value of non-residential property attributable to the installation of a renewable energy source 
device.
65
 The law applies to a renewable energy source device installed on or after January 1, 
2013, on new and existing residential real property, and to a renewable energy source device 
installed on or after January 1, 2018, to all other real property.
66
  
 
The term “renewable energy source device” means any of the following equipment that collects, 
transmits, stores, or uses solar energy, wind energy, or energy derived from geothermal deposits: 
 Solar energy collectors, photovoltaic modules, and inverters. 
 Storage tanks and other storage systems, excluding swimming pools used as storage tanks. 
 Rockbeds. 
 Thermostats and other control devices. 
 Heat exchange devices. 
 Pumps and fans. 
 Roof ponds. 
 Freestanding thermal containers. 
 Pipes, ducts, refrigerant handling systems, and other equipment used to interconnect such 
systems; however, such equipment does not include conventional backup systems of any 
type. 
 Windmills and wind turbines. 
 Wind-driven generators. 
 Power conditioning and storage devices that use wind energy to generate electricity or 
mechanical forms of energy. 
                                                
65
 Section 193.624(2), F.S. 
66
 Section 193.624(3), F.S.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 14 
 
 Pipes and other equipment used to transmit hot geothermal water to a dwelling or structure 
from a geothermal deposit.
67
 
 
Partial Exemption of Tangible Personal Property 
Tangible personal property (TPP) taxes apply to persons conducting business operations. Anyone 
who owns TPP and has a proprietorship, partnership, corporation, who leases, lends, or rents 
property, or who is a self-employed agent or contractor, must file a TPP return to the property 
appraiser by April 1 each year.
68
 Each tangible personal property tax return is eligible for an 
exemption from ad valorem taxation of up to $25,000 of assessed value.
69
 A single return must 
be filed for each site in the county where the owner of tangible personal property transacts 
business.
70
 
 
Biogas and Renewable Natural Gas 
Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) is biogas
71
 that has been upgraded or refined for use in place of 
fossil natural gas. Under Florida Law, RNG is defined in s. 366.91(f), F.S., as “anaerobically 
generated biogas, landfill gas, or wastewater treatment gas refined to a methane content of 90 
percent or greater which may be used as a transportation fuel or for electric generation or is of a 
quality capable of being injected into a natural gas pipeline.”
72
 
 
Sources of biogas that are later refined to produce RNG include organic waste from food, 
agriculture, wastewater treatment and landfills.
73
 In order to complete the process of converting 
biogas into RNG, facilities capture the biogas, “clean” it to pipeline standards, and then inject it 
into the pipeline for customer use.
74
 At least three facilities in Florida are converting biogas into 
RNG,
75
 with more in development.
76
 
 
Proposed Changes 
The bill expands the ad valorem tax benefits for renewable energy source devices to include 
facilities used to capture and convert biogas to RNG. Specifically, it expands the definition of 
“renewable energy source device” used under both ss. 193.624 and 196.182, F.S., to include 
equipment that collects, transmits, stores or uses energy derived from biogas, as defined in s. 
                                                
67
 Section 193.624(1), F.S. 
68
 Section 193.062, F.S.; see also Fla. Dep’t of Revenue, Tangible Personal Property, 
https://floridarevenue.com/property/Pages/Taxpayers_TangiblePersonalProperty.aspx (last visited Feb. 19, 2024). 
69
 Section 196.183(1), F.S. 
70
 Section 196.183(1), F.S. 
71
 Section 366.91(2)(a), F.S., defines “biogas” as a mixture of gases produced by the biological decomposition of organic 
materials which is largely comprised of carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, and methane gas. 
72
 See s. 212.08(5)(v)1., F.S. 
73
 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, An Overview of Renewable Natural Gas from Biogas, available at 
https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2020-07/documents/lmop_rng_document.pdf (last visited Feb. 19, 2024). 
74
 Tampa Electric Company/TECO Peoples Gas, Presentation on Florida’s Energy Future (Liquefied Natural Gas, Renewable 
Natural Gas, and Small Modular Reactors), (Feb. 14, 2024), slide 5, available at 
https://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Documents/loaddoc.aspx?PublicationType=Committees&CommitteeId=3226&Se
ssion=2024&DocumentType=Meeting+Packets&FileName=ecc+12-6-23.pdf (last visited Feb. 19, 2024). 
75
 Id. at slide 10, 12-16. 
76
 Nasdaq, Chesapeake Utilities Corporation to Develop its First RNG Facility in Florida (Feb.19, 2024), 
https://www.nasdaq.com/press-release/chesapeake-utilities-corporation-to-develop-its-first-rng-facility-in-florida-2023-02 
(last visited February 4, 2024) (Chesapeake Utilities Corporation is installing a dairy manure renewable natural gas facility in 
Madison County, Florida).  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 15 
 
366.91, F.S. Under the bill, such equipment includes pipes, equipment, structural facilities, 
structural support, and any other machinery integral to the interconnection, production, storage, 
compression, transportation, processing, and conversion of biogas from landfill waste, livestock 
farm waste, including manure, food waste, or treated wastewater into renewable natural gas as 
defined in s. 366.91, F.S. 
 
The bill incorporates natural gas pipelines or distribution systems to the current exclusion from 
such benefit for equipment on the distribution or transmission side of the point at which a 
renewable energy source device is interconnected. 
 
These changes first apply to the 2025 tax roll. 
 
Sections 15 and 16 – Increase in an Ad Valorem Tax Exemption for Disabled Ex-
servicemembers 
Present Situation 
The Florida Constitution provides several property tax exemptions and discounts for disabled 
veterans and their surviving spouses. These include: 
 A complete exemption for property owned and used as a homestead by a veteran with a total 
and permanent service-connected disability.
77
 
 A complete exemption for property owned and used as a homestead by a veteran with a total 
service-connected disability that confines him or her to a wheelchair.
78
 Upon the veteran’s 
death, the exemption carries over to the veteran’s unremarried surviving spouse.
79
 
 A complete exemption for property owned and used as a homestead by the unremarried 
surviving spouse of a veteran who died while on active duty if the veteran was a permanent 
resident of Florida on the day he or she died.
80
 
 A discount on homestead property taxes for certain combat-disabled veterans who are age 65 
or older.
81
 The discount is calculated as a percentage equal to the percentage of the veteran’s 
permanent, service-connected disability.
82
 The discount is applied as a reduction to the 
taxable value of the homestead property.
83
 
 
Article VII, s. 3(b) of the State Constitution, requires that general law establish an exemption of 
property tax for widows and widowers, and persons who are blind or totally and permanently 
disabled. The value of these exemptions may be provided by general law, with a constitutional 
minimum of $500.
84
 Subsections (1) and (2) of s. 196.101, F.S., exempt the total value of a 
homestead used and owned by a person who is totally and permanently disabled. 
 
                                                
77
 FLA. CONST. art. VII, s. 3(b); s. 196.081, F.S. 
78
 FLA. CONST. art. VII, s. 3(b); s. 196.091(1), F.S. 
79
 Section 196.091(3), F.S. 
80
 FLA. CONST. art VII, s. 6(f); s. 196.081(4) F.S. 
81
 FLA. CONST. art. VII, s. 6(e); s. 196.082, F.S. 
82
 Section 196.082(2), F.S. 
83
 Section 196.082(6), F.S. 
84
 FLA. CONST. art. VII, s. 3(b).  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 16 
 
Section 196.24, F.S.,
85
 provides a $5,000 property tax exemption to any resident ex-
servicemember
86
 who was honorably discharged and has been disabled to a degree of 10 percent 
or more by misfortune or while serving during a period of wartime service.
87
 This exemption is 
extended to an unremarried surviving spouse of a disabled ex-servicemember.
88
 
 
Proposed Changes 
The bill provides for an increase in the value of the ad valorem tax exemption for disabled ex-
servicemembers from $5,000 to $10,000.  
 
This increase first applies to the 2025 tax roll. 
 
Sections 18 and 19 – Home Equity Conversion Mortgages 
Present Situation 
A home equity conversion mortgage (HECM), also known as a reverse mortgage, allows 
borrowers to convert part of their home equity into payments from a lender while remaining in 
their homes.
89
  
 
The Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.)
90
 defines a HECM as a “nonrecourse consumer credit 
obligation in which:  
 A mortgage, deed of trust, or equivalent consensual security interest securing one or more 
advances is created in the consumer's principal dwelling. 
 Any principal, interest, or shared appreciation or equity is due and payable (other than in the 
case of default) only after the consumer dies, the dwelling is transferred, or the consumer 
ceases to occupy the dwelling as a principal dwelling.”
91
   
 
Most HECMs are under the Federal Housing Administration’s Home Equity Conversion 
Mortgage program, which provides insurance for HECMs.
92
 The program’s purpose is to meet 
the special needs of elderly homeowners and to increase the number of lenders making HECMs 
for elderly homeowners.
93
 In order for a borrower to participate in this program, borrowers must 
                                                
85
 This statutory provision was created by ch. 69-55, L.O.F. However, it was preceded by s. 192.11, F.S., as authorized by 
Art. IX, s. 9 of the Florida Constitution (1885). That provision in the constitution provided that: “There shall be exempt from 
taxation property to the value of five hundred dollars to every widow and to every person who is a bona fide resident of the 
State and has lost a limb or been disabled in war or by misfortune.” 
86
 Section 196.012(19), F.S., defines “ex-servicemember” as any person who has served as a member of the United States 
Armed Forces on active duty or state active duty, a member of the Florida National Guard, or a member of the United States 
Reserve Forces. 
87
 The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs determines the severity of a veteran’s disability based on evidence submitted by 
the veteran or present in the veteran’s military records. This results in a disability rating from 0% to 100% in 10% 
increments. U.S. DEP’T. OF VETERANS AFFAIRS, Compensation, https://www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/rates-index.asp 
(last visited Feb. 19, 2024). 
88
 Section 196.24(1), F.S. 
89
 Government Accountability Office (GAO), Reverse Mortgages, FHA Needs to Improve Monitoring and Oversight of Loan 
Outcomes and Servicing, 2019, available at https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-19-702.pdf (last visited Feb. 9, 2024).  
90
 See 12 C.F.R. s. 1026.33(a). 
91
 12 C.F.R. s. 1026.33(a). 
92
 Supra note 89.  
93
 24 C.F.R. s. 206.1 and 12 U.S.C.A. s. 1715z-20.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 17 
 
meet eligibility requirements, such as being 62 years of age or older,
94
 be on the title to 
property,
95
 and occupy the property as their principal residence.
96
 
 
There are several terms used in the HECM program.  
 Maximum claim amount: The lesser of the appraised value of the property,
97
 the sales price 
of the property being purchased as the principal residence, or the national mortgage limit for 
a one-family residence, which is $1.1 million in Calendar Year 2024.
98
   
 Principal limit: The amount of money a borrower can receive from a home equity 
conversion mortgage.
99
 It is calculated by taking into account the age of the youngest 
borrower or eligible non-borrowing spouse,
100
 the expected average mortgage interest rate, 
and the maximum claim amount.
101
 
 
In states that have a maximum mortgage amount on the mortgage document, HUD policy 
requires that the lender use 150% of the maximum claim amount.
102
 In Florida, this results in the 
documentary stamp being applied to 150% of the maximum claim amount.
103
 
 
Proposed Changes 
The bill requires the documentary stamp tax to be applied to the principal limit amount rather 
than the maximum claim amount or the stated mortgage amount. “Principal limit” is defined to 
mean the gross amount of loan proceeds available to the borrower without consideration of any 
use restrictions. The documentary stamp tax must be calculated based on the principal limit at the 
time of closing.  
 
The bill clarifies that the changes to the act apply retroactively, but do not create a right to a 
refund or credit of any tax paid before the effective date of the act. 
 
Section 20 – Documentary Stamp Tax on Alarm System Agreements 
Present situation 
Alarm system contractors execute promissory notes when installing a new alarm system into real 
property. Such promissory notes are subject to documentary stamp tax. 
                                                
94
 24 C.F.R. s. 206.33. 
95
 24 C.F.R. s. 206.35. 
96
 24 C.F.R. s. 206.39. 
97
 The appraised value as determined by the appraisal used in underwriting the loan. 
98
 24 C.F.R. s. 206.3 and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, How the HECM Programs Works, available 
at https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/sfh/hecm/hecmabou (last visited Feb. 19, 2024).  
99
 Supra note 89.    
100 
An “eligible non-borrowing spouse” is a non-borrowing spouse who meets all qualifying attributes for a deferral period. A 
“deferral period” is the period of time following the death of the last surviving borrower during which the due and payable 
status of a HECM is deferred for an eligible non–borrowing spouse provided that the qualifying attributes and all other FHA 
requirements continue to be satisfied. See 24 C.F.R. s. 206.3.  
101
 24 C.F.R. s. 206.3. 
102
 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Home Equity Conversion Mortgages Handbook (4235.1), Chapter 
6, available at https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/administration/hudclips/handbooks/hsgh/4235.1 (last visited Feb. 19, 
2024). 
103
 Florida Office of Economic and Demographic Research, Revenue Estimating Conference, available at 
http://edr.state.fl.us/Content/conferences/revenueimpact/archives/2024/_pdf/impact0209.pdf (last visited Feb. 19, 2024).   BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 18 
 
 
Proposed changes  
The bill amends s. 201.08, F.S., to exempt from documentary stamp tax non-interest-bearing 
written obligations to pay money, or assignments of salaries, wages, or other compensation 
made, executed, delivered, sold, transferred, or assigned in the state, and for each renewal of the 
same, of $3,500 or less, when given by a customer to an alarm system contractor, as defined in s. 
489.505, in connection with the sale of an alarm system, as defined in s. 489.505. 
 
Section 21 – Local Option Food and Beverage Referendum Requirements 
Present Situation 
In 1967, Florida authorized the municipal resort tax.
104
 The law authorized cities and towns 
meeting certain population requirements located within counties also meeting certain population 
requirements to levy the tax.
105
 The tax could be levied on rentals of hotel rooms and similar 
accommodations, and it could also be levied on sales of food and certain beverages.
106
 
 
The municipal resort tax continues to be levied today in the cities of Bal Harbour, Surfside, and 
Miami Beach, all of which are located within Miami-Dade County. 
 
Florida has since authorized Miami Dade County to levy the local option food and beverage 
tax.
107
 The local option food and beverage tax consists of two taxes: a 2 percent tax on the sale of 
food, beverages, and alcoholic beverages sold in hotels and motels, and a 1 percent tax on the 
sale of food, beverages, and alcoholic beverages sold at an establishment licensed by the state to 
sell alcoholic beverages on site.
108
 
 
The local option food and beverage tax may not be levied in a city or town that levies the 
municipal resort tax. However, a city or town levying the municipal resort tax may impose the 1-
percent local option food and beverage tax if the levy is approved by a majority of the registered 
electors in such city or town at a referendum held at a general election.
109
 
 
Proposed Changes 
The bill amends the voter approval requirement to be a majority of the registered electors in such 
city or town voting in a referendum rather than a majority of the registered electros in such city 
or town.  
 
                                                
104
 Chapter 67-930, Laws of Fla. 
105
 Section 1, ch. 67-930, Laws of Fla. 
106
 Section 1, ch. 67-930, Laws of Fla. 
107
 Section 212.0306, F.S. 
108
 Section 212.0306(1), F.S. 
109
 Section 212.0306(2)(d), F.S.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 19 
 
Section 22 – Indigent Care and Trauma Center Surtax 
Present Situation 
Counties are authorized to levy discretionary sales surtaxes on transactions subject the state’s 
sales tax for specific purposes.
110
 The Indigent Care and Trauma Center Surtax
111
 consists of two 
separate levies for different groups of eligible counties: 
 Non-consolidated counties that have a total population of 800,000 or more (excluding 
Miami-Dade County) may impose, subject to an extraordinary vote of the county’s governing 
body or voter approval in a countywide referendum, a surtax not to exceed 0.5 percent for the 
purpose of funding health care services for qualified residents.
112
 
 Non-consolidated counties with a total population of less than 800,000 may impose, subject 
to voter approval in a countywide referendum, a surtax not to exceed 0.25 percent for the sole 
purpose of funding trauma services provided by a trauma center licensed pursuant to ch. 395, 
F.S.  
 
During the 2023-2024 local fiscal year, the single county levying this surtax, Hillsborough, is 
estimated to collect $195 million in revenue.
113
 
 
Although Duval County has a total population greater than 800,000, it may not levy this surtax 
because it is a consolidated county government.
114
 
 
Proposed Changes 
The bill amends the Indigent Care and Trauma Center Surtax to remove the restriction that a 
county must not be consolidated with that of one or more municipalities. This change will result 
in Duval County being authorized to levy a surtax not to exceed 0.5 percent for the purpose of 
funding health care services for qualified residents. 
 
Sections 23 and 31 – Automatic Extension of the Filing Deadline for Corporate Income Tax 
and Sales and Use Tax Taxpayers 
Present situation 
Corporate Income Tax  
Under Florida law, the due dates to file tax returns related to corporate income tax are tied to the 
due dates of the related federal return. Florida corporations must file income tax returns on or 
before the first day of the 5th month following the close of the taxable year or the 15th day 
following the federal due date.
115
  
 
                                                
110
 Section 212.054, F.S. See s. 212.055, F.S., for the surtaxes specifically authorized in law. 
111
 Section 212.055(4), F.S. 
112
 Section 212.055(4)(a), F.S. 
113
 The Office of Economic and Demographic Research, The Florida Legislature, 2023 Local Government Financial 
Information Handbook, 181 (2024), available at http://edr.state.fl.us/Content/local-government/reports/lgfih23.pdf (last 
visited Feb. 13, 2024). 
114
 Id. 
115
 Section 220.222(1), F.S. Some partnerships are also required to file informational returns. These returns are due on or 
before the first day of the 4th month after the close of the taxable year.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 20 
 
When a Florida corporation is granted an extension of time to file its federal return – usually six 
months – the taxpayer may file an extension of time to file its Florida return.
116
 If granted, the 
extended Florida due date will be the 15th day after the expiration of the federal extension, or 
until the expiration of six months from the original due date, whichever occurs first.
117
 If a 
taxpayer extends the time to file its Florida return, the taxpayer must file a tentative tax return 
and make a tentative tax payment.
118
 
 
Sales and Use Tax  
Persons desiring to engage in or conduct business in this state as a dealer must first apply with 
Department of Revenue (department) as a dealer.
119
 Each dealer must file a return and remit the 
tax due on or before the 20
th
 day of the month.
120
  
 
Return filing and tax remittance deadlines for those revenue sources over which the department 
is granted administrative control
121
 may be extended during a declared state of emergency.
122
 
The Executive Director of the department has authority to extend due dates and waive interest 
that accrues during such time.
123
 
 
Recent Relief Granted 
Currently, in response to Hurricane Idalia, the department is following the tax relief granted by 
the Internal Revenue Service, which has extended tax return due dates for eligible taxpayers with 
original or extended due dates falling on or after August 27, 2023, and before March 1, 2024. 
Such taxpayers have a due date of March 1, 2024.
124
 
 
Previously, in response to Hurricane Ian, taxpayers that file Florida corporate income tax returns, 
as well as Florida corporate income tax installment payments, with original due dates or 
extended due dates falling on or after September 23, 2022, and before March 2, 2023, were 
granted a due date of March 2, 2023. This tax relief was applicable to affected businesses 
anywhere in Florida.
125
  
 
Additionally, due dates for the September 2022 and October 2022 reporting periods for 
taxpayers
126
 in six Florida counties were extended to November 23, 2022. Businesses located 
                                                
116
 Section 220.32, F.S. 
117
 Section 220.222(2), F.S. 
118
 Section 220.32, F.S. 
119
 Section 212.18(3)(a), F.S. 
120
 Section 212.11(1)(b), F.S. 
121
 Section 213.055, F.S 
122
 See s. 252.36, F.S., Emergency management powers of the Governor. 
123
 Section 213.055(2), F.S. 
124
 Florida Dep’t of Revenue, General Tax, Corporate Income Tax (CIT) Relief for Hurricane Idalia 
https://floridarevenue.com/taxes/Pages/default.aspx#accordion (last visited Feb. 13, 2024). 
125
 Florida Dep’t of Revenue, Updates and Information, Hurricane Ian, General Tax Administration, 
https://floridarevenue.com/pages/hurricaneian.aspx (last visited Feb. 13, 2024) 
126
 Eligible taxes include sales and use tax (including discretionary sales surtax), reemployment tax, communications services 
tax, documentary stamp tax (unrecorded documents), governmental leasehold intangible personal property tax, gross receipts 
tax on utility services, insurance premium tax, lead-acid battery fees (solid waste and surtax), motor fuels taxes, motor 
vehicle warranty fee, new tire fees (solid waste and surcharge), prepaid wireless E911 fees, rental car surcharge (solid waste 
and surcharge), severance tax, and tourist development tax.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 21 
 
in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Lee, and Sarasota counties had until November 23, 2022, 
to file the September 2022 and October 2022 reporting periods.
127
 
 
Proposed changes 
Corporate Income Tax A taxpayer who has been granted an extension of time to file its federal 
income tax return due to a federally declared disaster will be granted an automatic extension of 
15-days after the due date, including any extensions provided for such federally declared disaster 
for the filing of the related federal return for the taxable year. 
 
The “disaster extension” is contingent upon the taxpayer having first paid its tentative tax, a 
requisite for any taxpayer desiring to extend the time for filing its corporate income tax return. 
 
Sales and Use Tax The bill grants an automatic 10-day extension from the date for filing a sales 
and use tax return and remitting the tax when a state of emergency is declared within 5 business 
days prior to the 20
th
 day of the month. 
 
Sections 24 – Sales Tax Dealer Collection Allowance Permanent Increase 
Present situation 
Businesses that sell tangible personal property and services that are subject to the Florida sales 
tax are required to collect the sales tax on the sale and to remit their collections.
128
 These 
businesses are referred to as dealers and are required to file returns
129
 and maintain books and 
records to evidence past sales,
130
 which are subject to audit by the department.
131
 
 
For maintaining records and properly reporting and remitting sales tax, dealers are authorized to 
retain from collected sales tax an amount equal to 2.5 percent of collections on the first $1,200 
dollars of collected sales tax (the “percentage method”), which equates to a maximum of $30 per 
return. 
 
Proposed changes 
The bill replaces the “percentage method” with a flat amount equal to $45 per return. If the 
amount of tax due is less than $45, the allowance is limited to the amount of tax due. 
 
This section of the bill takes effect January 1, 2025. 
 
                                                
127
 Florida Dep’t of Revenue, Updates and Information, Hurricane Ian, General Tax Administration, 
https://floridarevenue.com/pages/hurricaneian.aspx (last visited Feb. 13, 2024). 
128
 See generally s. 212.06, F.S. 
129
 See s. 212.11, F.S. 
130
 See s. 212.13, F.S. 
131
 Id.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 22 
 
Sections 25, 35, 36, and 37 –Thoroughbred Breeding and Racing at Florida Thoroughbred 
Tracks 
Present situation 
Florida produces 7 percent of the annual thoroughbred foal crop in North America.
132
 At certain 
times of the year, Florida has in excess of 15,000 thoroughbreds-in-training located in training 
centers within Florida.
133
 
 
In 2023, the legislature authorized a distribution from Florida sales tax receipts to the Florida 
Agricultural Promotional Campaign Trust Fund for Fiscal Years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 totaling 
$55 million. 
 
The annual distribution of $27.5 million is to be used by the Department of Agriculture and 
Consumer Services (DACS) to encourage breeding thoroughbred racehorses and thoroughbred 
racing at thoroughbred tracks in Florida.
134
 
 
Funds are distributed as follows: 
 $5 million to the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association, Inc., to be used for: 
o Purses or purse supplements for Florida-bred or Florida-sired horses that participate in 
Florida thoroughbred races. 
o Awards to breeders of Florida-bred horses that win, place, or show in Florida 
thoroughbred races. 
o Awards to owners of stallions who sired Florida-bred horses that win Florida 
thoroughbred stakes races, if the stallions are registered with the association as Florida 
stallions. 
o Other racing incentives connected to Florida-bred or Florida-sired horses registered with 
the association that participate in thoroughbred races in Florida. 
o Awards administration. 
o Promotion of the Florida thoroughbred breeding industry. 
 $5 million to Tampa Bay Downs, Inc., to be used as purses in thoroughbred races conducted 
at its pari-mutuel facilities and for the maintenance and operation of that facility, pursuant to 
an agreement with its local majority horsemen’s group. 
 $15 million to Gulfstream Park Racing Association, Inc., to be used as purses in 
thoroughbred races conducted at its pari-mutuel facility and for the maintenance and 
operation of its facilities, pursuant to an agreement with the Florida Horsemen’s Benevolent 
and Protective Association, Inc. 
 $2.5 million dollars to be distributed as follows: 
o $2 million dollars to Gulfstream Park Racing Association, Inc., to be used as purses and 
purse supplements for Florida-bred or Florida-sired horses registered with the association 
that participate in thoroughbred races at the permitholder’s pari-mutuel facility, pursuant 
to a written agreement filed with the DACS establishing the rates, procedures, and 
                                                
132
 FLA. THOROUGHBRED BREEDERS’ AND OWNERS’ ASS’N, Florida-bred Incentives, https://www.ftboa.com/horse-capital-of-
the-world/ (last visited Feb. 19, 2024). 
133
 Id. 
134
 Section 571.265, F.S.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 23 
 
eligibility requirements entered into by the permitholder, the association, and the Florida 
Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, Inc. 
o $500,000 to Tampa Bay Downs, Inc., to be used as purses and purse supplements for 
Florida-bred or Florida-sired horses registered with the association that participate in 
thoroughbred races at the permitholder’s pari-mutuel facility, pursuant to a written 
agreement filed with the DACS establishing the rates, procedures, and eligibility 
requirements entered into by the permitholder, the association, and the local majority 
horsemen’s group at the permitholder’s pari-mutuel facility. 
 
On or before the first day of the August following each fiscal year in which a recipient under this 
section received or used funds pursuant to this section, each such recipient must submit a report 
to the DACS detailing how all funds were used in the prior fiscal year. 
 
These provisions are repealed on July 1, 2026, unless reviewed and saved from repeal by the 
Legislature. 
 
Proposed changes 
The bill makes permanent the annual distribution of $27.5 million from the sales and use tax. 
The bill also saves from repeal the specific uses of such distribution. 
 
Sections 26, 30, and 46 – Individuals with Unique Abilities Tax Credit Program 
Present Situation 
The Legislature adopted a number of provisions in 2016 aimed at improving the quality of life 
and integration of individuals with disabilities in the workforce.
135 
These included modifying the 
state’s equal employment opportunity policy to provide enhanced executive agency employment 
opportunities for those with a disability; creating the Employment First Act, which requires 
certain state agencies and organizations to develop an agreement to improve employment 
outcomes for those with a disability;
136
 and creating the Florida Unique Abilities Partner 
Program to recognize businesses that demonstrate commitment to the independence of 
individuals who have a disability through employment or support.
137
 
 
Proposed Changes 
The bill creates s. 220.1992, F.S., to provide for a corporate income tax credit for corporations 
that employ individuals with disabilities in this state. The credit is for $1 per hour worked, up to 
$1,000 per employee per year. The maximum amount of credit that can be earned by a 
corporation in any year is $10,000, and unused credits may be carried forward for up to five 
taxable years. The maximum credit amount that can be awarded statewide is $5 million per state 
fiscal year. The credit is available for Fiscal Years 2024-2025, 2025-2026, and 2026-2027. 
 
                                                
135
 Ch. 2016-3, Laws of Florida. 
136
 The Employment First Florida website is available at https://www.employmentfirstfl.org/ (last visited Feb. 19, 2024). 
137
 The Unique Abilities Partner Program is housed within the Department of Commerce; additional information is available 
at https://floridajobs.org/unique-abilities-partner-program (last visited Feb. 19, 2024).  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 24 
 
The bill amends s. 220.02(8), F.S., to include the new tax credit at the end of the Legislature’s 
intended order of tax credit application. 
 
Sections 27, 28, and 46 – Adoption of the Internal Revenue Code 
Present Situation 
Florida maintains its relationship with the federal Internal Revenue Code by each year adopting 
the federal Internal Revenue Code in effect on January 1 of the year. By doing this, Florida 
adopts any changes that were made in the previous year to the determination of federal taxable 
income. 
 
Because Florida relies on federal taxable income to determine Florida taxable income, changes to 
the calculation of federal taxable income will affect the calculation of Florida taxable income and 
may increase or decrease Florida tax receipts if Florida adopts the most recent federal Internal 
Revenue Code. In some instances, Florida has adopted the new federal Internal Revenue Code, 
but excluded some changes. 
 
Proposed Changes 
The bill updates Florida’s corporate income tax by adopting the federal Internal Revenue Code in 
effect on January 1, 2024. By adopting the updated code, Florida recognizes the changes made to 
the code. 
 
These sections of the bill take effect upon the bill becoming a law. 
 
Section 29 – Qualified Railroad Reconstruction or Replacement Expenditures 
Present Situation 
Freight rail is a primary component of Florida’s transportation network, managing highway 
congestion and assisting with supply chain issues. There are a number of freight railroads 
operating in Florida, all of which fall into three main classifications, based on their annual 
operating revenue, as follows: 
 Class I: $943,898,958 or more 
 Class II: less than $943,898,958 but in excess of $42,370,575 
 Class III: $42,370,575 or less.
138
  
 
Class I railroads in Florida are CSX Transportation and Norfolk Southern Railway. The Florida 
East Coast Railway is the only Class II railroad in Florida and covers 351 miles.
 
As of November 
2023, there are about a dozen Class III railroad companies in Florida covering approximately 
1405 miles.
 139
 
 
                                                
138
 Florida Department of Transportation, Florida Rail System Plan – Updated 2023, available at 
https://www.fdot.gov/rail/plans/railplan (last visited Feb. 17, 2024).  
139
 Florida Department of Transportation, Florida Rail System Plan Chapter 2, available at 
https://fdotwww.blob.core.windows.net/sitefinity/docs/default-source/rail/plans/rail/rail-system-plan-2023/rsp-october-
version/fdot_rsp_ch-2_ada-(oct).pdf?sfvrsn=d4351c09_2 (last visited Feb. 18, 2024).  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 25 
 
Class II and Class III railroads that invest in maintaining or improving railroad track in Florida 
may apply for a credit against corporate income tax.
140
 Qualified expenditures must be made on 
the track that is owned or leased by the railroad and include expenditures for the maintenance of 
railroad infrastructure or new construction. The credit is equal to 50 percent of the investment in 
Florida in the prior calendar year, and is limited to the total number of miles the railroad owns or 
leases in Florida multiplied by $3,500. 
 
A railroad must submit an application in order to receive a credit. The application must include 
any documentation or information required by the department to demonstrate eligibility for the 
credit, including an affidavit certifying that all information is true and correct. Supporting 
documentation must include a copy of a specified IRS form or its equivalent.  
 
The railroad must submit the application with its tax return. If the qualifying railroad is not a 
corporate income taxpayer, the railroad must submit the application directly to the department no 
later than May 1 of the calendar year following the year in which the qualified expenditures were 
made. 
 
If the credit is not fully used in any one taxable year because of insufficient tax liability on the 
part of the railroad, or because the railroad is not subject to tax under this chapter, the unused 
amount may be carried forward for a period not to exceed 5 taxable years or may be transferred 
under certain circumstances. The credit may be transferred at any time during the 5 taxable years 
following the taxable year in which the credit was originally earned by the qualifying railroad by 
written agreement to a taxpayer subject to corporate income tax that: 
 transports property using the rail facilities of the qualifying railroad; or 
 furnishes railroad-related property or services to any railroad operating in this state; or  
 is a railroad. 
 
The department must issue a letter to the qualifying railroad within 30 days after receipt of the 
completed application indicating the amount of the approved credit available for carryover or 
transfer. The carryover or transferred credit may be used in any of the 5 subsequent taxable 
years, providing that the corporate income tax liability for that taxable year exceeds the credit for 
which the qualifying railroad or transferee is eligible, after applying other available credits and 
unused carryovers.
141
 
 
Proposed Changes 
The bill makes the following changes to the application for a credit: 
 Removes the requirement that an application is submitted with a tax return. The bill 
allows an application to be submitted no later than 120 days following the conclusion of 
the taxable year in which qualified expenditures were incurred. 
 Removes the requirement that a railroad provide a copy of a specified IRS form or its 
equivalent with the application. Instead, the bill specifies that the applicant must provide 
to the department supporting documentation that includes any relevant information 
determined by the department to verify eligibility of qualified expenditures made in this 
                                                
140
 Section 220.1915, F.S.  
141
 In the order provided by section 220.02(8), F.S.   BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 26 
 
state for the credit. The supporting documentation must include, but is not limited to, the 
number of track miles owned or leased in this state by the qualifying railroad, description 
of qualified expenditures, and financial records which are necessary to verify the 
accuracy of the information.  
 
The bill increases the time for the department to issue a letter from 30 days to 45 days after 
receipt of a completed application. The letter from the department must indicate the amount of 
the credit approved. Finally, the bill allows the credits to be transferred to any taxpayer subject to 
corporate income tax. 
 
Sections 32 and 33 – Strong Families Tax Credit Program 
Present situation 
The Strong Families Tax Credit Program, established in s. 402.62, F.S., was created in 2021 to 
provide tax credits for businesses that make monetary donations to certain eligible charitable 
organizations that provide services focused on child welfare and well-being. The tax credits are a 
dollar-for-dollar credit against certain tax liabilities. 
 
An eligible charitable organization is an organization designated by the Department of Children 
and Families (DCF) to be eligible to receive funding under this section.
142
 
 
The Department of Children and Families shall designate as an eligible charitable organization 
an organization that meets all of the following requirements: 
 Is exempt from federal income taxation under s. 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. 
 Is a Florida entity formed under chapter 605, chapter 607, or chapter 617 and whose principal 
office is located in this state. 
 Provides services to: 
o Prevent child abuse, neglect, abandonment, or exploitation; 
o Assist fathers in learning and improving parenting skills or to engage absent fathers in 
being more engaged in their children’s lives; 
o Provide books to the homes of children eligible for a federal free or reduced-price meals 
program or those testing below grade level in kindergarten through grade 5; 
o Assist families with children who have a chronic illness or a physical, intellectual, 
developmental, or emotional disability; or 
o Provide workforce development services to families of children eligible for a federal free 
or reduced-price meals program. 
 Provides to the Department of Children and Families accurate information, including, at a 
minimum, a description of the services provided by the organization which are eligible for 
funding under this section; the total number of individuals served through those services 
during the last calendar year and the number served during the last calendar year using 
funding under this section; basic financial information regarding the organization and 
services eligible for funding under this section; outcomes for such services; and contact 
information for the organization. 
                                                
142
 Section 402.62(1)(c), F.S.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 27 
 
 Annually submits a statement, signed under penalty of perjury by a current officer of the 
organization, that the organization meets all criteria to qualify as an eligible charitable 
organization, has fulfilled responsibilities under this section for the previous fiscal year if the 
organization received any funding through this credit during the previous year, and intends to 
fulfill its responsibilities during the upcoming year. 
 Provides any documentation requested by the Department of Children and Families to verify 
eligibility as an eligible charitable organization or compliance with this section. 
 
The Department of Children and Families may not designate as an eligible charitable 
organization an organization that: 
 Provides abortions or pays for or provides coverage for abortions; or 
 Has received more than 50 percent of its total annual revenue from the DCF, either directly 
or via a contractor of the DCF, in the prior fiscal year. 
 
The tax credit can be taken against the business’s liability for several state taxes, including: 
 Corporate income tax; 
 Insurance premium tax; 
 Severance taxes on oil and gas production; 
 Alcoholic beverage tax on beer, wine, and spirits; or 
 Self-accrued sales tax liability of direct pay permit holders. 
 
The annual tax credit cap for all credits under the program is $20 million per fiscal year. The 
Department of Revenue (department) is required to approve the tax credits on a first-come, first-
served basis and must obtain the approval of the Department of Business and Professional 
Regulation prior to approving an alcoholic beverage tax credit under s. 561.1213, F.S. 
 
Businesses that wish to participate in the program must apply to the department for an allocation 
of tax credit. Generally, applications for a Fiscal Year’s allocation may be submitted beginning 
on the first business day in January immediately preceding the start of the state fiscal year.
143
 
The taxpayer must specify in the application each tax for which the taxpayer requests a credit, 
the applicable taxable year for a credit under ss. 220.1877 or 624.51057, F.S., relating to the 
corporate income and insurance premium tax credits, and the applicable state fiscal year for a 
credit under ss. 211.0253, 212.1834, or 561.1213, F.S., relating to oil and gas production, direct 
pay permit sales, and alcoholic beverage tax credits, respectively. 
 
In 2023, the Legislature increased the annual tax credit cap for all credits under this program 
from $10 million to $20 million per state fiscal year.
144
 The Department approves tax credits on a 
first-come, first-served basis and must obtain the approval of the Department of Business and 
Professional Regulation prior to approving an alcoholic beverage tax credit under s. 561.1213, 
F.S.
145
 
 
                                                
143
 See Fla. Dep’t of Revenue, Strong Families Tax Credit, available at 
https://floridarevenue.com/taxes/taxesfees/Pages/strongfamilies.aspx (last visited Feb. 17, 2024). 
144
 Chapter 2023-157, s. 38, Laws of Florida. 
145
 Section 402.62(5)(b)1., F.S.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 28 
 
Proposed changes 
The bill amends s. 402.62, F.S., to increase the maximum credits allocated for the program from 
$20 million per fiscal year to $40 million per fiscal year, beginning in Fiscal Year 2024-2025. 
 
The bill also makes the following amendments to the program: 
 Establishes that the application window for the Strong Families tax credit begins at 9 a.m. on 
the first day of the calendar year preceding the fiscal year that is not a Saturday, Sunday, or 
legal holiday.  
 For Fiscal Year 2024-2025, taxpayers may apply for the additional $20 million credit amount 
beginning at 9:00 a.m. on July 1, 2024. 
 Adds to the designation criterion a requirement that the eligible charitable organization 
receive referrals from the DCF child protective investigators to provide direct services and 
support to at-risk children and families. 
 Removes from the list of what services may be provided “books to the homes of children 
eligible for a federal free or reduced-price meals program or those testing below grade level 
in kindergarten through grade 5.” 
 Instructs the DCF to not designate an eligible charitable organization if the organization has 
received for than 50 percent of its total annual revenue from a federal, state, or local 
governmental agency. 
 
Section 34 – Alcoholic Beverage Tax Distribution to Cancer Centers 
Present Situation 
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) Cancer Centers Program supports cancer research by 
recognizing centers that meet certain standards for finding new ways to prevent, diagnose, and 
treat cancer. There are 72 NCI-designated cancers centers across 36 states and the District of 
Columbia. Florida has four NCI-designated cancer centers.
146
   
 
The Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and the University of Florida Shands Cancer 
Center are NCI-designated Cancer Centers. This means that they have scientific leadership, 
resources, and the depth and breadth of research in basic, clinical, or prevention, cancer control, 
and population science. The Mayo Clinic Cancer Center and Moffitt Cancer Center are NCI-
designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers. In addition to leadership and resources, they have an 
added depth and breadth of research and substantial transdisciplinary research that bridges 
scientific areas.
147
 
 
The Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in Miami is part of the University of Miami Health 
System and the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. It received NCI designation in 
2019. Sylvester has a team of over 2,500 physicians, researchers and staff and is currently 
conducting more than 430 cancer-focused clinical trials.
148
 The center has collaborative, 
                                                
146
 National Cancer Institute, Find a Cancer Center, available at https://www.cancer.gov/research/infrastructure/cancer-
centers/find (last visited Feb. 18, 2024).  
147
 National Cancer Institute, NCI-Designated Cancer Centers, available at 
https://www.cancer.gov/research/infrastructure/cancer-centers (last visited Feb. 18, 2024).  
148
 Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, About Sylvester, available at https://umiamihealth.org/en/sylvester-
comprehensive-cancer-center/about-sylvester (last visited Feb. 18, 2024).   BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 29 
 
multidisciplinary research programs such as cancer epigenetics, cancer control, and tumor 
biology.
149
   
 
The University of Florida Shands Cancer Center in Gainesville is Florida’s newest NCI-
designated cancer center and received the designation in June 2023.
150
 The center provides care 
to north central Florida, which covers a geographically large region that has the highest rates of 
cancer mortality in the state. Research strengths include cancer communication and prevention, 
tumor virology and the microbiome, and cancer immunotherapy.
151
 
 
The Mayo Clinic Cancer Center is the only NCI-designated cancer center that has three 
geographic sites. It was one of the first centers to receive NCI designation in 1973. Florida’s 
Mayo Clinic Cancer Center is in Jacksonville and the other two locations are in Arizona and 
Minnesota. Research covers many topics such as cancer immunology and immunotherapy, 
experimental therapeutics, gastrointestinal cancer, and women's cancer.
 152
 
 
The Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa first received the cancer center designation in 1998 and 
received the comprehensive cancer designation in 2001. Research focuses include topics such as 
evolutionary biology and mathematical oncology, cancer epidemiology, and health outcomes and 
behaviors.
153
 Unlike the other NCI-designated centers, Moffitt will receive $38.4 million in 
Fiscal Year 2024-2025 from the cigarette tax and distributions will continue annually through 
June 30, 2054.
154
 
 
Florida imposes excise taxes on malt beverages, wines, and other beverages.
155 
The taxes are due 
from manufacturers, distributors and vendors of malt beverages, and from manufacturers and 
distributors of wine, liquor, and other specified alcoholic beverages. Taxes are remitted to the 
Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco (Division) in the Department of Business and 
Professional Regulation (DBPR). 
 
The Division is responsible for supervising the conduct, management, and operation of the 
manufacturing, packaging, distribution, and sale of all alcoholic beverages in Florida.
156
 
Distributions of the excise taxes on alcoholic beverages are made to the General Revenue Fund, 
the Alcoholic Beverage and Tobacco Trust Fund, and Viticulture Trust Fund. Collections of 
                                                
149
 National Cancer Institute, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, available at 
https://www.cancer.gov/research/infrastructure/cancer-centers/find/sylvester-miami (last visited Feb. 18, 2024).  
150
 University of Florida Health, UF Health Cancer Center, available at https://ufhealth.org/uf-health-cancer-
center?utm_source=google&utm_medium=tj%20ppc&utm_campaign=cancer%20center%20broad&gad_source=1&gclid=E
AIaIQobChMIkLbVhbu3hAMVZIVaBR3kggCCEAAYASAAEgLMR_D_BwE (last visited Feb. 19, 2024). 
151
 National Cancer Institute, University of Florida Health Cancer Center, available at 
https://www.cancer.gov/research/infrastructure/cancer-centers/find/ufhealth (last visited Feb. 18, 2024). 
152
 National Cancer Institute, Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, available at 
https://www.cancer.gov/research/infrastructure/cancer-centers/find/mayoclinic (last visited Feb. 18, 2024).  
153
 National Cancer Institute, Moffitt Cancer Center, available at https://www.cancer.gov/research/infrastructure/cancer-
centers/find/moffitt (last visited Feb. 18, 2024).  
154
Florida Revenue Estimating Conference, 2023 Florida Tax Handbook, 48, available at 
http://edr.state.fl.us/Content/revenues/reports/tax-handbook/taxhandbook2023.pdf (last visited Feb. 19, 2024).  
155
 Sections 563.05, 564.06, and 565.12, F.S.   
156
 Section 561.02, F.S.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 30 
 
alcoholic beverage taxes were $317 million in Fiscal Year 2022-2023 with distributions to 
General Revenue of $311 million.
157
 
 
Proposed Changes 
The bill provides a monthly distribution in the amount of $416,667 from the Alcoholic Beverage 
and Tobacco Trust Fund to each of the following: Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the 
University of Miami; the Board of Directors of the University of Florida Shands Cancer Center; 
and Mayo Clinic Cancer Center in Jacksonville, Florida. This results in an annual distribution of 
$5 million to each cancer center, which is a total annual distribution of $15 million.   
 
The funds may be used for constructing, furnishing, equipping, financing, operating, and 
maintaining cancer research and clinical and related facilities; furnishing, equipping, operating, 
and maintaining other properties owned or leased by the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center 
at the University of Miami, the University of Florida Shands Cancer Center and the Mayo Clinic 
Cancer Center in Jacksonville, Florida.  
 
This distribution is repealed June 30, 2054. 
 
Section 38 – Exemption of Flood Insurance from Insurance Premium Tax  
Present situation  
Insurance policies, contracts, or endorsements providing personal or commercial lines coverage 
for the peril of flood or excess coverage for the peril of flood are subject to the insurance 
premium tax. Current law defines a flood as “a general and temporary condition of partial or 
complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land area or of two or more properties, 
at least one of which is the policyholder’s property, from:  
 overflow of inland or tidal waters;  
 unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source;  
 mudflow; or  
 collapse or subsidence of land along the shore of a lake or similar body of water as a 
result of erosion or undermining caused by waves or currents of water exceeding 
anticipated cyclical levels that result in a flood.”
158
 
 
Proposed change  
This section applies to a policy providing coverage for a twelve-month period with an effective 
date not before July 1, 2024, and no later than June 30, 2025. The bill creates a 1-year exemption 
for an insurance policy, contract, or endorsement providing personal or commercial lines 
coverage for the peril of flood, or excess coverage for the peril of flood on any structure or the 
contents of personal property contained therein. 
 
                                                
157
 Florida Revenue Estimating Conference, 2023 Florida Tax Handbook (Oct. 2023), 117, available at 
http://edr.state.fl.us/content/revenues/reports/tax-handbook/taxhandbook2023.pdf  (last visited Feb. 18, 2024). 
158
 Section 627.715(1)(b), F.S.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 31 
 
Section 39 – Residential Property Insurance Premium Tax Credit   
Present situation  
Insurance policies on residential dwellings are subject to the insurance premium tax.  
 
Current law allows for credits for payments of several taxes against the insurance premium tax, 
including payments of corporate income taxes
159
 and adjustments for payments of the 
firefighter
160
 and municipal police
161
 trust funds excise taxes.
162
  
 
Current law also provides a credit limitation.
163
 The total of the credit granted for the corporate 
income taxes paid by the insurer and the credit granted to insurers for employee salaries
164
 may 
not exceed 65 percent of the insurance premium tax
165
 after deducting firefighter and municipal 
police trust funds excise tax payments and any assessments related to administration of workers’ 
compensation.
166
  
 
Proposed change  
This section applies to a policy providing property insurance on a residential dwelling with a 
coverage amount of $750,000 or less which provides coverage for a twelve month period with an 
effective date not before July 1, 2024, and no later than June 30, 2025. 
 
The bill requires an insurer issuing such a policy to provide a credit to the policyholder equal to 
1.75 percent of the net premium due. The amount of the credit must be separately stated on the 
declarations page of the insurance policy.  
 
Additionally, an insurer may claim an amount equal to the credit provided to the policyholder 
against any insurance premium tax.
167
 An insurer claiming this credit is not required to pay any 
additional retaliatory tax
168
 as a result of claiming such credit. The credit does not affect an 
insurer’s ability to be granted a credit for salaries and corporate income tax paid under s. 
624.509(5), F.S., and it does not count against the credit limitation of 65 percent of insurance 
premium tax liability under s. 624.509(6), F.S.
 169
 
                                                
159
 Chapter 220, Florida Statutes. 
160
 Section 175.141, F.S. Additionally, s. 175.101, F.S., allows for a 1.85% excise tax on property insurance premiums if 
levied by a municipality or special fire control district for pension benefits to firefighters.  
161
 Section 185.12, F.S. Additionally, s. 185.08, F.S., allows for a 0.85% excise tax on casualty insurance premiums if levied 
by a municipality for pension benefits to police officers.  
162
 The Firefighter and Municipal Police Trust Funds Excise Tax provides funding for pension plans established for 
firefighters and police officers under Chapters 175 and 185, Florida Statutes. The Department of Revenue collects the tax 
from insurance companies and transfers funds to the Police and Firefighters' Premium Tax Trust Fund at the Division of 
Retirement. See Department of Management Services, Overview, available at 
https://www.dms.myflorida.com/workforce_operations/retirement/local_retirement_plans/municipal_police_and_fire_plans/o
verview (last visited Feb. 17, 2024).  
163
 Section 624.509(6), F.S.  
164
 Section 624.509(5), F.S. 
165
 Due under s. 624.509(1), F.S.  
166
 Section 440.51, F.S.  
167
 Section 624.509(1), F.S.  
168
 Retaliatory tax levied under s. 624.5091, F.S. 
169
 Section 624.509(6), F.S.  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 32 
 
  
The bill makes changes to the carry forward provisions of certain credits. If the following credits 
are not fully used in any one year because of insufficient tax liability, the unused amount may be 
carried forward for a period not to exceed five years.  
 A credit granted for firefighter
170
 and municipal police
171
 trust funds excise tax payments 
against any insurance premium tax.
172
  
 A credit for corporate income taxes.
173
  
 A credit allowed for insurers for employee salaries,
174
 as such credit is subject to the 
credit limitation. 
 
This section is repealed June 30, 2029. 
 
Section 40 – State fire marshal assessment and surcharge holiday 
Present situation  
In addition to the insurance premium tax, certain premiums are subject to the state fire marshal 
assessment or surcharge. The assessment is an annual 1% rate on premiums collected by each 
insurer for policies of fire insurance. The fire marshal surcharge is an annual 0.1% rate on 
premiums of each holder of a policy of fire, allied lines, or multiperil insurance insuring 
commercial property. Current law defines fire insurance as “the insurance of structures or other 
property at fixed locations against loss or damage to such structures or other described properties 
from the risks of fire and lightning.”
 175
   
 
The revenue from the state fire marshal assessment and surcharge are for use by the State Fire 
Marshal to defray the expenses of the duties required by law. These include maintaining of 
offices and necessary supplies, essential equipment and other materials, salaries and expenses of 
required personnel, and all other legitimate expenses relating to the discharge of the 
administrative and regulatory powers and duties.
176
 
 
Proposed change  
This section applies to a policy providing property insurance on a residential dwelling with a 
coverage amount of $750,000 or less written for a coverage of twelve months with an effective 
date not before July 1, 2024, and no later than June 30, 2025.  
 
The bill requires that the state fire marshal regulatory assessment and surcharge may not be 
assessed and imposed on such policy. The amount of the assessment and surcharge not assessed 
and imposed must be provided as a credit to the policyholder. The amount must also be 
separately disclosed on the declarations page of the insurance policy. This provision is repealed 
June 30, 2025. 
                                                
170
 Section 175.141, F.S. 
171
 Section 185.12, F.S. 
172
 Section 624.509(1), F.S. 
173
 Chapter 220, F.S.  
174
 Section 624.509(5), F.S. 
175
 Section 624.515, F.S.  
176
 Section 624.516, F.S.   BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 33 
 
 
Section 41 – Florida Insurance Guaranty Association assessment credit 
Present situation  
The Florida Insurance Guaranty Association
177
 (FIGA) is a nonprofit corporation that handles the 
claims of certain insolvent insurance companies.
178
 FIGA provides a “mechanism for the 
payment of covered claims under certain insurance policies to avoid” delay and financial loss 
due to the financial insolvency of an insurer.
179
 It issues guaranty fund payments and provides 
related services for all lines of property and casualty insurance, with certain exceptions.
180
 When 
a Florida property and casualty insurer becomes insolvent, the FIGA takes over the claims of that 
insurer and pays the claims of its policyholders, ensuring that policyholders are not left with 
unpaid claims. 
 
In addition to the insurance premium tax, certain premiums are subject to the FIGA assessment. 
Property and casualty insurers are automatically members of FIGA and are subject to 
assessments on premiums written by member companies.
181
 The assessments levied against a 
FIGA insurer may not may not exceed more than 2 percent of that insurer’s premiums in a 
calendar year.
182
 However, if additional funds are needed to cover insolvencies due to a 
hurricane, the FIGA board of directors may levy emergency assessments. Emergency 
assessments levied against any insurer may not exceed more than 4 percent of that insurer’s 
premiums in a calendar year.
183
   
 
Proposed change  
This section applies to a policy providing property insurance on a residential dwelling with a 
coverage amount of $750,000 or less which provides coverage for a twelve-month period with an 
effective date not before July 1, 2024, and no later than June 30, 2025.  
 
The bill requires that an insurer issuing such a policy must provide a credit to the policyholder in 
the amount of assessment levied pursuant to s. 631.57(3)(f), F.S. The amount of the credit 
provided to the policyholder must also be separately disclosed on the declarations page of the 
insurance policy. Additionally, an amount equal to the credit provided to the policyholder is 
allowed against any assessments levied pursuant to s. 631.57(3)(f), F.S., and payable by an 
insurer to the Florida Insurance Guaranty Association. This section is repealed June 30, 2025. 
 
                                                
177
 Section 631.55, F.S.  
178
 FIGA, Home Page, available at https://figafacts.com/ (last visited Feb. 17, 2024).  
179
 Section 631.51, F.S. 
180
 Section 631.52, F.S. 
181
 See s. 631.52, F.S., and FIGA, 2022 Annual Report, available at https://figafacts.com/reports/ (last visited Feb. 17, 2024).  
182
 Section 631.57 (3)(a), F.S.  
183
 For the kinds of insurance within the account specified in s. 631.55(2)(b), F.S.   BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 34 
 
Section 42 - Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday – 28 days – June 1, 2024, through 
June 14, 2024, and from August 24, 2024, through September 6, 2024  
Present situation 
Florida has enacted a disaster preparedness sales tax holiday 10 times since 2006. Generally 
during these holidays, the following items were exempt: 
 
 
A few of the holidays have included items that were not repeated every year. For instance, the 
2006 and 2007 holidays included cell phone batteries ($60 or less), cell phone chargers ($40 or 
less), storm shutters ($200 or less), carbon monoxide detectors ($75 or less), and any 
combination of items exempt under the holiday or existing law which were folded together for 
$75 or less. The 2021 holiday included portable power banks selling for $60 or less. The 2022 
and 2023 holiday included portable power banks selling for $60 or less, smoke detectors, smoke 
alarms, fire extinguishers, or carbon monoxide detectors selling for $70 or less; and specified 
items necessary for the evacuation of household pets, with item thresholds ranging from $10 
(wet pet food) to $100 (portable kennels or carriers). In 2023, the maximum purchase price of a 
generator was increased from $1,000 to $3,000. 
 
The Florida Division of Emergency Management recommends having a disaster supply kit with 
items such as a battery operated radio, flashlight, batteries, and first-aid kit.
184
 
 
                                                
184
 FLA. DIV. OF EMERGENCY MGMT., Disaster Supply Kit Checklist, available at 
https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/hurricane-supply-checklist/ (last visited Feb. 19, 2024). 
Dates Length 
TAX EXEMPTION THRESHOLDS 
Reusable 
Ice 
Light 
Source 
Fuel 
Containers 
Batteries 
Coolers 
and Ice 
Chests 
Radios 
Tie down 
tools and 
sheeting 
Generators 
May 21-June 1, 
2006* 
12 days $10 or less $20 or 
less 
$25 or less $30 or 
less 
$30 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$1000 or 
less 
June 1-June 12, 
2007* 
12 days $10 or less $20 or 
less 
$25 or less $30 or 
less 
$30 or 
less 
$75 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$1000 or 
less 
May 31-June 8, 
2014** 
9 days $10 or less $20 or 
less 
$25 or less $30 or 
less 
$30 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$750 or less 
June 2 –June 4, 
2017 
3 days $10 or less $20 or 
less 
$25 or less $30 or 
less 
$30 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$750 or less 
June 1-7, 2018 7 days $10 or less $20 or 
less 
$25 or less $30 or 
less 
$30 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$750 or less 
May 31-June 6, 
2019 
7 days $10 or less $20 or 
less 
$25 or less $30 or 
less 
$30 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$750 or less 
May 29-June 4, 
2020 
7 days $10 or less $20 or 
less 
$25 or less $30 or 
less 
$30 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$750 or less 
May 28 – June 6, 
2021*** 
10 days $20 or less $40 or 
less 
$50 or less $50 or 
less 
$60 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$100 or 
less 
$1,000 or 
less 
May 28 – June 
10, 2022**** 
14 days $20 or less $40 or 
less 
$50 or less $50 or 
less 
$60 or 
less 
$50 or 
less 
$100 or 
less 
$1,000 or 
less 
May 27 - June 9, 
& August 26 - 
Sept. 8, 2023 
28 days $20 or less $40 or 
less 
$50 or less $50 or 
less 
$60 or 
less 
$60 or 
less 
$100 or 
less 
$3,000 or 
less  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 35 
 
Proposed changes 
During the holiday, the following items are exempt from the state sales tax and county 
discretionary sales surtaxes: 
 A portable self-powered light source with a sales price of $40 or less. 
 A portable self-powered radio, two-way radio, or weather-band radio with a sales price of 
$50 or less. 
 A tarpaulin or other flexible waterproof sheeting with a sales price of $100 or less. 
 An item normally sold as, or generally advertised as, a ground anchor system or tie-down kit 
with a sales price of $100 or less. 
 A gas or diesel fuel tank with a sales price of $50 or less. 
 A package of AA-cell, AAA-cell, C-cell, D-cell, 6- volt, or 9-volt batteries, excluding 
automobile and boat batteries, with a sales price of $50 or less. 
 A nonelectric food storage cooler with a sales price of $60 or less. 
 A portable generator used to provide light or communications or preserve food in the event 
of a power outage with a sales price of $3,000 or less. 
 Reusable ice with a sales price of $20 or less. 
 A portable power bank with a sales price of $60 or less. 
 A smoke detector or smoke alarm with a sales price of $70 or less. 
 A fire extinguisher with a sales price of $70 or less. 
 A carbon monoxide detector with a sales price of $70 or less. 
 
The following supplies necessary for the evacuation of household pets purchased for 
noncommercial use: 
 Bags of dry dog food or cat food weighing 50 or fewer pounds with a sales price of $100 or 
less per bag. 
 Cans or pouches of wet dog food or cat food with a sales price of $10 or less per can or 
pouch or the equivalent if sold in a box or case. 
 Over-the-counter pet medications with a sales price of $100 or less per item. 
 Portable kennels or pet carriers with a sales price of $100 or less per item. 
 Manual can openers with a sales price of $15 or less per item. 
 Leashes, collars, and muzzles with a sales price of $20 or less per item. 
 Collapsible or travel-sized food bowls or water bowls with a sales price of $15 or less per 
item. 
 Cat litter weighing 25 or fewer pounds with a sales price of $25 or less per item. 
 Cat litter pans with a sales price of $15 or less per item. 
 Pet waste disposal bags with a sales price of $15 or less per package. 
 Pet pads with a sales price of $20 or less per box or package. 
 Hamster or rabbit substrate with a sales price of $15 or less per package. 
 Pet beds with a sales price of $40 or less per item. 
 
The holiday does not apply to the following sales: 
 Sales within a theme park or entertainment complex, as defined in s. 509.013(9), F.S.; 
 Sales within a public lodging establishment, as defined in s. 509.013(4), F.S.; and 
 Sales within an airport, as defined in s. 330.27(2), F.S. 
  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 36 
 
The department is authorized to adopt emergency rules to implement this sales tax holiday. 
 
Section 43 – Recreational Sales Tax Holiday (“Freedom Month”) – 1 Month – July 1, 2024, 
through July 31, 2024 
Present situation 
Florida enacted a recreational sales tax holiday in 2021, 2022, and 2023. The sales tax holidays 
in 2021 and 2022 were one week, held at the beginning of July. In 2023, the legislature extended 
the holiday to 3 months, beginning at the end of May. The holidays exempted recreational 
equipment and certain admissions to events. 
 
Proposed changes 
The bill provides for a sales tax holiday from July 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024, for specified 
admissions and items related to recreational activities. During the sales tax holiday, the following 
admissions, if purchased during this period, are exempt from the state sales tax and county 
discretionary sales surtaxes: 
 
 A live music event scheduled to be held on any date or dates from July 1, 2024, through 
December 31, 2024. 
 A live sporting event scheduled to be held on any date or dates from July 1, 2024, through 
December 31, 2024. 
 A movie to be shown in a movie theater on any date or dates from July 1, 2024, through 
December 31, 2024. 
 Entry to a museum, including any annual passes. 
 Entry to a state park, including any annual passes. 
 Entry to a ballet, play, or musical theatre performance scheduled to be held on any date or 
dates from July 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024. 
 Season tickets for ballets, plays, music events, or musical theatre performances. 
 Entry to a fair, festival, or cultural event scheduled to be held on any date or dates from July 
1, 2024, through December 31, 2024. 
 Use of or access to private and membership clubs providing physical fitness facilities from 
July 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024. 
 
If a purchaser of an admission purchases the admission exempt from tax pursuant to this section 
and subsequently resells the admission, the purchaser shall collect tax on the full sales price of 
the resold admission. 
 
During the sales tax holiday, the following items are exempt from the state sales tax and 
discretionary sales surtax: 
 Boating and water activity supplies 
o Life jackets and coolers with a sales price of $75 or less. 
o Recreational pool tubes, pool floats, inflatable chairs, and pool toys with a sales price of 
$35 or less 
o Safety flares with a sales price of $50 or less 
o Water skis, wakeboards, kneeboards, and recreational inflatable water tubes or floats 
capable of being towed with a sales price of $150 or less  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 37 
 
o Paddleboards and surfboards with a sales price of $300 or less 
o Canoes and kayaks with a sales price of $500 or less 
o Paddles and oars with a sales price of $75 or less 
o Snorkels, goggles, and swimming masks with a sales price of $25 or less. 
 Camping supplies  
o Tents with a sales price of $200 or less 
o Sleeping bags, portable hammocks, camping stoves, and collapsible camping chairs with 
a sales price of $50 or less 
o Camping lanterns and flashlights with a sales price of $30 or less. 
 Fishing supplies 
o Rods and reels with a sales price of $75 or less if sold individually, or $150 or less if sold 
as a set 
o Tackle boxes or bags with a sales price of $30 or less 
o Bait or fishing tackle with a sales price of $5 or less if sold individually, or $10 or less if 
multiple items are sold together. The term does not include supplies used for commercial 
fishing purposes. 
 General outdoor supplies 
o Sunscreen, sunblock, or insect repellant with a sales price of $15 or less 
o Sunglasses with a sales price of $100 or less 
o Binoculars with a sales prices of $200 or less 
o Water bottles with a sales price of $30 or less 
o Hydration packs with a sales price of $50 or less 
o Outdoor gas or charcoal grills with a sales price of $250 or less 
o Bicycle helmets with a sales price of $50 or less 
o Bicycles with a sales price of $500 or less. 
 Residential pool supplies 
o Individual residential pool and spa replacement parts, nets, filters, lights, and covers with 
a sales price of $100 or less 
o Residential pool and spa chemicals purchased by an individual with a sales price of $150 
or less. 
 
The holiday does not apply to the following sales: 
 Sales within a theme park or entertainment complex, as defined in s. 509.013(9), F.S.; 
 Sales within a public lodging establishment, as defined in s. 509.013(4), F.S.; and 
 Sales within an airport, as defined in s. 330.27(2), F.S. 
 
The department is authorized to adopt emergency rules to implement this sales tax holiday. 
 
Section 44 – Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday – 14 days – July 29, 2024, through August 
11, 2024 
Present situation 
Florida has enacted a “back-to-school” sales tax holiday twenty-two times since 1998. The 
following table describes the history of back-to-school sales tax holidays in Florida. 
 
  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 38 
 
 
 
Proposed changes 
The bill provides for a sales tax holiday from July 29, 2024, through August 11, 2024. During 
the holiday, the following items that cost $100 or less are exempt from the state sales tax and 
county discretionary sales surtaxes: 
 Clothing (defined as an “article of wearing apparel intended to be worn on or about the 
human body,” but excluding watches, watchbands, jewelry, umbrellas, and handkerchiefs); 
 Footwear (excluding skis, swim fins, roller blades, and skates); 
 Wallets; and 
Dates Length 
TAX EXEMPTION THRESHOLDS 
Clothing/ 
Footwear 
Wallets/ 
Bags 
Books/ 
Learning 
Aids/ Puzzles 
Computers 
School 
Supplies 
August 15-21, 1998 7 days $50 or less N/A N/A N/A N/A 
July 31-August 8, 
1999 
9 days $100 or less $100 or less N/A N/A N/A 
July 29-August 6, 
2000 
9 days $100 or less $100 or less N/A N/A N/A 
July 28-August 5, 
2001 
9 days $50 or less $50 or less N/A N/A $10 or less 
July 24-August 1, 
2004 
9 days $50 or less $50 or less $50 or less 
(Books) 
N/A $10 or less 
July 23-31, 2005 9 days $50 or less $50 or less $50 or less 
(Books) 
N/A $10 or less 
July 22-30, 2006 9 days $50 or less $50 or less $50 or less 
(Books) 
N/A $10 or less 
August 4-13, 2007 10 days $50 or less $50 or less $50 or less 
(Books) 
N/A $10 or less 
August 13-15, 2010 3 days $50 or less $50 or less $50 or less 
(Books) 
N/A $10 or less 
August 12-14, 2011 3 days $75 or less $75 or less N/A N/A $15 or less 
August 3-5, 2012 3 days $75 or less $75 or less N/A N/A $15 or less 
August 2-4, 2013 3 days $75 or less $75 or less N/A  $750 or less $15 or less 
August 1-3, 2014 3 days $100 or less $100 or less N/A First $750 of 
the sales price 
$15 or less 
August 7-16, 2015 10 days $100 or less $100 or less N/A First $750 of 
the sales price 
$15 or less 
  August 5-7, 2016 3 days $60 or less $60 or less N/A N/A $15 or less 
  August 4-6, 2017 3 days $60 or less $60 or less N/A $750 or less $15 or less 
  August 3-5, 2018 3 days $60 or less $60 or less N/A N/A $15 or less 
  August 2-6, 2019 5 days $60 or less $60 or less N/A $1,000 or less $15 or less 
August 7-9, 2020 3 days $60 or less $60 or less N/A First $1,000 of 
the sales price 
$15 or less 
July 31-August 9, 
2021 
10 days $60 or less $60 or less N/A First $1,000 of 
the sales price 
$15 or less 
July 25-August 7, 
2022 
14 days $100 or less $100 or less $30 (Learning 
Aids/Puzzles) 
$1,500 or less $50 or less 
July 24-August 6, 
2023, & January 1-
14, 2024 
28 days $100 or less $100 or less $30 (Learning 
Aids/Puzzles) 
$1,500 or less $50 or less  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 39 
 
 Bags (including handbags, backpacks, fanny packs, and diaper bags, but excluding 
briefcases, suitcases, and other garment bags). 
 
The bill also exempts various “school supplies” that cost $50 or less per item and learning aids 
and jigsaw puzzles that cost $30 or less per item. “Learning aids” are defined as flashcards or 
other learning cards, matching or other memory games, puzzle books and search-and-find books, 
interactive or electronic books and toys intended to teach reading or math skills, and stacking or 
nesting blocks or sets. 
 
The bill exempts personal computers and related accessories with a sales price of $1,500 or less 
which are purchased for noncommercial home or personal use. This includes electronic book 
readers, calculators, laptops, desktops, handhelds, tablets, or tower computers. Not included are 
cellular telephones, video game consoles, digital media receivers, or devices that are primarily 
designed to process data. Included related accessories are items such as keyboards, mice, 
personal digital assistants, monitors, other peripheral devices, modems, routers, and 
nonrecreational software, regardless of whether the accessories are used in association with a 
personal computer base unit. Not included is furniture or systems, devices, software, monitors 
with a television tuner, or peripherals designed or intended primarily for recreational use. 
 
Dealers are authorized to opt out of the “back-to-school” sales tax holiday if less than five 
percent of the dealer’s gross sales of tangible personal property in the prior calendar year are 
comprised of items that would be exempt under the holiday. If a qualifying dealer chooses not to 
participate in the tax holiday, by July 15, 2024, the dealer must notify the Department of 
Revenue (department) in writing of its election to collect sales tax during the holiday and must 
post a copy of that notice in a conspicuous location at its place of business. 
 
The holiday does not apply to the following sales: 
 Sales within a theme park or entertainment complex, as defined in s. 509.013(9), F.S.; 
 Sales within a public lodging establishment, as defined in s. 509.013(4), F.S.; and 
 Sales within an airport, as defined in s. 330.27(2), F.S. 
 
The department is authorized to adopt emergency rules to implement this sales tax holiday. 
 
Section 45 - Skilled Worker Tools Sales Tax Holiday – 7 days – September 1, 2024, through 
September 7, 2024 
Present situation 
In 2022 and 2023, the Legislature enacted a seven-day sales tax holiday, during the week 
surrounding Labor Day, on tools used in skilled trades. Currently, there is no exemption for tools 
used by skilled trade workers, such as carpenters, electricians, plumbers, welders, pipefitters, 
masons, painters, heating and air conditioning technicians, and other service technicians. 
 
Proposed changes 
The bill provides a seven-day sales tax holiday from September 1, 2024, through September 7, 
2024, for specified tools commonly used by skilled trade workers. During the sales tax holiday, 
the following items are exempt from the state sales tax and county discretionary sales surtaxes:  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 40 
 
 
 Hand tools with a sales price of $50 or less per item. 
 Power tools with a sales price of $300 or less per item. 
 Power tool batteries with a sales price of $150 or less per item. 
 Work gloves with a sales price of $25 or less per pair. 
 Safety glasses with a sales price of $50 or less per pair, or the equivalent if sold in sets of 
more than one pair. 
 Protective coveralls with a sales price of $50 or less per item. 
 Work boots with a sales price of $175 or less per pair. 
 Tool belts with a sales price of $100 or less per item. 
 Duffle bags or tote bags with a sales price of $50 or less per item. 
 Tool boxes with a sales price of $75 or less per item. 
 Tool boxes for vehicles with a sales price of $300 or less per item. 
 Industry textbooks and code books with a sales price of $125 or less per item. 
 Electrical voltage and testing equipment with a sales price of $100 or less per item. 
 LED flashlights with a sales price of $50 or less per item. 
 Shop lights with a sales price of $100 or less per item. 
 Handheld pipe cutters, drain opening tools, and plumbing inspection equipment with a sales 
price of $150 or less per item. 
 Shovels with a sales price of $50 or less. 
 Rakes with a sales price of $50 or less. 
 Hard hats and other head protection with a sales price of $100 or less. 
 Hearing protection items with a sales price of $75 or less. 
 Ladders with a sales price of $250 or less. 
 Fuel cans with a sales price of $50 or less. 
 High visibility safety vests with a sales price of $30 or less. 
  
The holiday does not apply to the following sales: 
 Sales within a theme park or entertainment complex, as defined in s. 509.013(9), F.S.; 
 Sales within a public lodging establishment, as defined in s. 509.013(4), F.S.; and 
 Sales within an airport, as defined in s. 330.27(2), F.S. 
 
The department is authorized to adopt emergency rules to implement this sales tax holiday. 
 
Section 47 provides an effective date of July 1, 2024, except as otherwise provided in the 
bill. 
IV. Constitutional Issues: 
A. Municipality/County Mandates Restrictions: 
Article VII, s. 18(b) of the Florida Constitution provides that, except upon the approval of 
each house of the Legislature by a two-thirds vote of the membership, the Legislature 
may not enact, amend, or repeal any general law if the anticipated effect of doing so 
would be to reduce the authority that municipalities or counties have to raise revenue in 
the aggregate, as such authority existed on February 1, 1989. However, the mandates  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 41 
 
requirements do not apply to laws having an insignificant impact,
185
 which is $2.3 million 
or less for Fiscal Year 2024-2025.
186
 
 
The bill is estimated to reduce the authority local governments have to raise revenue from 
local option sales taxes and property taxes by $80.0 million in Fiscal Year 2024-2025; 
therefore, this bill may be a mandate subject to the requirements of Art. VII, s. 18(b) of 
the Florida Constitution. 
B. Public Records/Open Meetings Issues: 
None. 
C. Trust Funds Restrictions: 
None. 
D. State Tax or Fee Increases: 
This bill does not create or raise a state tax or fee. Therefore, the requirements of Art. 
VII, s. 19 of the Florida Constitution do not apply. 
E. Other Constitutional Issues: 
None identified. 
V. Fiscal Impact Statement: 
A. Tax/Fee Issues: 
The bill reduces revenues in total by $901.0 million, which is the sum of $235.1 million 
(recurring) and $665.9 million (pure nonrecurring in Fiscal Year 2024-2025 and 
reductions resulting from certain impacts in future years). Total tax reductions are 
represented by the sum of the recurring impacts, which reflect the annual value of 
permanent tax cuts when fully implemented, and the pure nonrecurring impacts, which 
reflect temporary tax reductions).  
 
The bill reduces revenues in Fiscal Year 2024-2025 by $630.6 million ($207.6 million 
recurring); General Revenue Fund receipts are reduced by $492.8 million ($156.3 million 
recurring), state trust fund receipts are reduced by $40 million ($0.5 million recurring); 
and local government revenue is reduced by $97.8 million ($51.8 million recurring), as 
displayed in the table at the end of this analysis. 
                                                
185 
FLA. CONST. art. VII, s. 18(d). An insignificant fiscal impact is the amount not greater than the average statewide 
population for the applicable fiscal year multiplied by $0.10. See FLA. SENATE COMM. ON CMY. AFFAIRS, Interim Report 
2012-115: Insignificant Impact, (September 2011), available at 
http://www.flsenate.gov/PublishedContent/Session/2012/InterimReports/2012-115ca.pdf (last visited Feb. 19, 2024). 
186
 Based on the Demographic Estimating Conference’s estimated population adopted on July 18, 2022. The conference 
packet is available at http://www.edr.state.fl.us/Content/conferences/population/archives/220718demographic.pdf (last 
visited Feb. 19, 2024).  BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 42 
 
B. Private Sector Impact: 
Taxpayers, both businesses and individuals, will experience significant tax savings. 
C. Government Sector Impact: 
The Department of Revenue will need to engage in rulemaking and will likely incur 
implementation costs. 
VI. Technical Deficiencies: 
None. 
VII. Related Issues: 
None. 
VIII. Statutes Affected: 
   
This bill substantially amends the following sections of the Florida Statutes: 125.0104, 192.001, 
193.155, 193.1554, 193.1555, 193.624, 196.011, 196.031, 196.121, 196.161, 196.24, 200.069, 
201.08, 201.21, 212.0306, 212.055, 212.11, 212.13, 212.20, 220.02, 220.03, 220.1915, 220.222, 
402.62, 561.121, 571.265, and 624.509. 
 
This bill creates sections 195.028, 220.1992, and 624.5108 of the Florida Statutes. 
 
This bill reenacts section 571.26 of the Florida Statutes. 
 
This bill repeals section 41 of ch. 2023-157, Laws of Florida. 
 
IX. Additional Information: 
A. Committee Substitute – Statement of Changes: 
(Summarizing differences between the Committee Substitute and the prior version of the bill.) 
None. 
B. Amendments: 
None. 
 
 
   BILL: SPB 7074   	Page 43 
 
 
This Senate Bill Analysis does not reflect the intent or official position of the bill’s introducer or the Florida Senate. FY 2024-2025 TAX CUT ALLOCATION
1st Yr. Recur. 1st Yr. Recur. 1st Yr. Recur. 1st Yr. Recur.
1Sales Tax
2Sales Tax: Freedom Sales Tax Holiday	(71.4)          -             (*) -             (19.1)          -             (90.5)          	-               
3Sales Tax: Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday	(76.7)          -             (*) -             (20.5)          -             (97.2)          	-               
4Sales Tax: Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays (63.3)          -             (*) -             (16.9)          -             (80.2)          	-               
5Sales Tax: Tool Time Sales Tax Holiday	(15.7)          -             (*) -             (4.1)            -             (19.8)          	-               
6Sales Tax: Permanent thoroughbred distribution 	-             -             -             -             -             -             -             -               
7Sales Tax: Collection Allowance Increase: $30 to $45 (49.3)          (118.2)        	2.0             4.7             -             -             (47.3)          (113.5)          
8Ad Valorem Tax
9
Ad Valorem: Renewable Energy Source Device Assessment 
Limitation
-             -             -             -             (0.5)            (1.3)            (0.5)            (1.3)              
10Ad Valorem: Construction Work in Progress	-             -             -             -             (2.9)            (2.9)            (2.9)            (2.9)              
11Ad Valorem: Extend HX rebuild time	-             -             -             -             -             (0.9)            -             (0.9)              
12
Ad Valorem: Consumer friendly property tax administration 
changes
-             -             -             -             (33.8)          (33.8)          (33.8)          (33.8)            
13
Ad Valorem: Increase Tax Exemptions for Disabled Ex 
servicemembers from $5,000 to $10,000 
-             -             -             -             -             (12.9)          -             (12.9)            
14Corporate Income Tax
15Corp. Inc. Tax: Adoption of the Internal Revenue Code -             -             -             -             -             -             -             -               
16
Corp. Inc. Tax: Persons with Unique Abilities Tax Credit - 
Three Years
(5.0)            -             -             -             -             -             (5.0)            -               
17Corp. Inc. Tax: Short line RR Tax Credit Timing	(**) (**) -             -             -             -             (**) (**)
18Insurance Premium Tax
19Insurance Tax: Flood Insurance	(28.9)          -             -             -             -             -             (28.9)          	-               
20Insurance Tax: Credits and temp tax cut 	(144.5)        	-             (37.9)          -             -             -             (182.4)        	-               
21Documentary Stamp Tax
22Doc. Stamp Tax: Reverse Mortgages	(2.3)            (2.3)            (3.1)            (3.2)            -             -             (5.4)            (5.5)              
23Doc Stamp Tax: Alarm System Documentary Stamp Tax	(0.7)            (0.8)            (1.0)            (1.0)            -             -             (1.7)            (1.8)              
24Local Taxes
25
Local Sales Taxes: TDT 25% of funds on single project
-             -             -             -             -             -             -             -               
26
Local Sales Taxes: Allow Duval to Levy Indigent Care Sales 
Surtax
-             -             -             -             -             0/** -             0/**
27
Local Option Tax: Local Food & Beverage Tax - Voter 
Clarification
-             -             -             -             -             -             -             -               
28Multiple Taxes / Miscellaneous
30Beverage Tax: Distribution for Cancer Centers	(15.0)          (15.0)          -             -             -             -             (15.0)          (15.0)            
31Multiple Taxes: Strong Families - Increase Cap	(20.0)          (20.0)          -             -             -             -             (20.0)          (20.0)            
32Multiple Taxes: Strong Families - Application Date	-             -             -             -             -             -             -             -               
33
Multiple Taxes: Strong Families - Designation 
Criterion/Services
-             -             -             -             -             -             -               
34Multiple Taxes: Automatic Extension of Time for Returns -             -             -             -             -             -             -             -               
2024-25 (492.8)        (156.3)        (40.0)          0.5             (97.8)          (51.8)          (630.6)        (207.6)          
Out-year Impacts	Cash Recur. Cash Recur. Cash Recur. Cash Recur.
35
Sales Tax: Distribution for Horse Breeding and Racing 
Promotion
(27.5)          (27.5)          -             -             -             -             (27.5)          (27.5)            
36Insurance Tax: Credits and temp tax cut 	(151.9)        	-             -             -             -             -             (151.9)        	-               
37
Corp. Inc. Tax: Persons with Unique Abilities Tax Credit - 
Three Years
(10.0)          -             -             -             -             -             (10.0)          	-               
Out Years (189.4)        (27.5)          -             -             -             -             (189.4)        (27.5)            
Tax Package Total (682.2)        (183.8)        (40.0)          0.5             (97.8)          (51.8)          (820.0)        (235.1)          
Pure Nonrecurring (665.9)          
Recurring + Pure Nonrecurring (901.0)          
General Revenue State Trust Funds Local/Other	Total
SPB 7074
General Revenue State Trust Funds Local/Other	Total
(*) Impact less than $100,000; (**) Impact is indeterminate; 0/**If an impact exists, it will be greater than $100,000.
(1) Ad valorem tax impacts assume current rates.
(2) Recurring tax cut total= -$235.1
Pure nonrecurring tax cuts= -$665.9
-$901.0