Florida Constitutional Amendments Explained

Understanding the 2022 Ballot Measures

Every two years, Florida voters have the opportunity to amend their state constitution through a series of proposed amendments. The 2022 ballot will feature six amendments, each addressing a different issue. Understanding these amendments is crucial for informed voting.

Amendment 1: Rights of Crime Victims; Judges

This amendment would enshrine in the constitution certain rights for victims of crime, including the right to be notified of and attend court proceedings, to be heard at sentencing, and to receive restitution. It would also require state courts to prioritize the fair treatment of victims and to provide them with information and Unterstützung in a timely manner.

Amendment 2: Voter Approval of Casino Gambling

Amendment 2 proposes to allow voters to decide whether to authorize casino gambling in counties that currently have pari-mutuel betting. If approved, each county would hold a referendum to determine whether to allow casino gambling within its borders.

Amendment 3: Save Our Homes Tax Exemption

This amendment would permanently extend the Save Our Homes property tax exemption for homeowners over 65 or disabled. The exemption currently reduces the assessed value of a primary residence by a certain percentage each year, resulting in lower property taxes.

Amendment 4: State and Local Government Structure and Operation

Amendment 4 would make several changes to the structure and operation of state and local government, including: * Creating a new State Legislative Committee on Tax Exemptions and Exemptions to oversee tax exemptions * Eliminating the Office of Comptroller and transferring its duties to the Chief Financial Officer * Revising the process for removing elected officials from office

Amendment 5: Prohibits Offshore Oil and Gas Drilling; Requires Voter Approval

This amendment would ban offshore oil and gas drilling in state waters and require voter approval for any future attempts to authorize such drilling.

Amendment 6: Additional Homestead Property Tax Exemption for Seniors and Disabled Persons

Amendment 6 would provide an additional homestead property tax exemption for seniors over 65 or disabled who meet certain income requirements. This exemption would be in addition to the Save Our Homes exemption and would further reduce property taxes for qualifying homeowners.