The Equity Effects of Property Tax Caps: Evidence from Florida

Abstract

Abstract Over the last decade Florida property owners have saved billions of dollars in taxes due to a 1995 assessment cap initiative which reduced homeowner’s tax burdens. Florida is not alone in passing assessment caps, 20 other states have passed similar property tax reductions. Proponents of Florida’s initiative said the measure would protect the elderly, many of whom live on fixed incomes in retirement, from property tax inflation. This research examines the vertical and horizontal equity effects of assessment caps. Using data from a large MSA in Florida, the results provide new evidence on which groups of homeowners are more likely to benefit from these types of initiatives.