Governor Ron DeSantis has called a Special Session on Property Taxes for June 1–3. Proposed changes include exempting the first $250,000 of homestead property value from taxation and requiring remaining local revenues to be directed toward “core services.”

Mosquito control must be recognized as a core service. Our programs protect residents and visitors from vector-borne diseases while preserving quality of life and economic stability throughout Florida.

This issue is especially critical for independent mosquito control districts, which receive nearly all operational funding through ad valorem taxes. Current estimates indicate that approximately 37–45% of mosquito control district revenues are derived from homesteaded properties, and many districts have no alternative funding authority under their enabling legislation.

Without appropriate protections or exemptions, these proposed changes could significantly impact mosquito control operations statewide. The message is simple: mosquito control must be recognized as a core service, and independent mosquito control districts must be treated differently than counties or cities because of the disproportionate impact these proposals would create.

The Senate is expected to hear the proposal in committee on Monday, June 1st, and waiting until then may be too late. Use the AMCA Advocacy Action Center to contact your local legislators immediately and emphasize the essential public health role mosquito control programs provide to Florida communities.