CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. (FNN) – Florida State Senator Kristen Arrington (D-Kissimmee) and Representative Dan Daley (D-Coral Springs) have introduced a bipartisan effort to provide enhanced financial relief to disabled veterans and their families. The proposed bills, SB 218 and HB 39, aim to amend Florida law to increase the property tax exemption for disabled ex-servicemembers from $5,000 to $10,000, offering meaningful economic support.

The legislation, titled “Tax Exemption for Disabled Ex-servicemembers,” will take effect on July 1, 2025, if passed, and will enable disabled veterans to significantly reduce their property tax burdens.

Who Qualifies for the Tax Exemption?

To be eligible, an ex-servicemember must meet the following criteria:

• Be a Florida resident.
• Have been discharged under honorable conditions.
• Possess a disability rating of 10 percent or more, resulting from either wartime service or misfortune.

Eligible veterans must present proof of their disability by providing a certificate from either the United States Government or the Department of Veterans Affairs to their county property appraiser. Additionally, the bill preserves the current provision that extends the tax exemption to the unremarried surviving spouse of a disabled ex-servicemember.

Key Benefits and Impact

The bill would exempt $10,000 of a property’s assessed value from taxation, providing substantial financial relief for Florida’s disabled veterans. This increased exemption will ease the financial strain on these veterans and their families, particularly in the face of rising living costs.

• Senator Kristen Arrington emphasized the importance of recognizing veterans’ sacrifices, stating:
  

  “Our servicemembers risk their lives to defend our country, and this expanded tax exemption offers much-needed financial relief to veterans and their surviving spouses, easing their burden and honoring their sacrifice.”

• Representative Dan Daley highlighted the significance of this initiative, adding:
  

  “This legislation is about showing our gratitude to the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country. By doubling the property tax exemption for disabled ex-servicemembers, we are taking a meaningful step to ease their financial burden and honor their dedication. It’s our responsibility to ensure these heroes and their families receive the support they’ve earned.”

Broader Implications

This measure is expected to impact thousands of veterans and their families across Florida, reinforcing the state’s commitment to supporting those who served. It also serves as an important step in addressing financial equity for veterans with disabilities.

The Florida Civil Rights Association joins the nation and the world in mourning the loss of President Jimmy Carter, a visionary leader and tireless advocate for humanity.

President Carter championed civil liberties and human rights throughout his life. He courageously advocated for racial equality during a time of deep division in America, set global precedents for advancing democracy, and worked tirelessly to address affordable housing for families through his partnership with Habitat for Humanity. His profound belief in the dignity of every human being continues to inspire movements for equality and justice worldwide.

Florida Civil Rights Association President J. Willie David, III:

“President Jimmy Carter was not just a former president; he was a global icon for justice and compassion. His unwavering commitment to human rights and equality stood as a beacon of hope for generations. President Carter’s legacy of fighting for civil rights, eradicating poverty, and championing affordable housing aligns perfectly with the core values of the Florida Civil Rights Association.

He reminded us that ‘the bond of our common humanity is stronger than the divisiveness of our fears and prejudices.’ His tireless dedication to creating a better world, even in his post-presidency, is a testament to the power of selfless service.

We join the nation and the world in mourning his loss while celebrating the monumental impact of his life. President Carter’s legacy challenges us to continue the work he began—to lift others, to advocate for justice, and to remain relentless in the pursuit of a more equitable society. He will forever remain an inspiration to us all.”

Rest in peace, President Jimmy Carter. Your legacy of service and justice will guide generations to come.