Saying it could have a "tremendous" impact on the future of Florida, AARP, the organization that lobbies on behalf of senior citizens has sent an e-mail to state senators urging them to reject the House's proposed cap on assessments for non-homestead or commercial properties, which would be a business equivalent of Save our Homes. (So should it be known as Save Our Businesses?)
AARP warned that the assessment idea was thrown out quickly at this week's Policy and Budget Council meeting and that two levels initially proposed, three percent and seven percent which are "arbitrary figures thrown out in the heat of deliberations."
"As a result, the members and public had little meaningful opportunity to support or reject either figure, to suggest other figures, or to suggest alternative concepts,'' wrote Jack McRay of AARP Florida.
"Under present circumstances, the more appropriate course would be for the Legislature to place on the ballot only those concepts and provisions which necessitate constitutional changes and which have significant legislative consensus,'' McCray also wrote. "The House proposal for a cap on annual property tax assessments meets neither basis. The Legislature has a responsibility to adapt Florida law to changing circumstances, and it should guard that prerogative jealously. The House proposal could usurp or significantly diminish the power of the Legislature and local governments to make future decisions about levels of property tax assessments that would be appropriate to the times and circumstances presented."
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