DAYTONA BEACH, FL — September 27, 2025
Florida’s tax system may be getting a major shake-up, and it’s the voters who will make the final call. A proposed amendment to raise the state’s sales tax is officially heading to the ballot in November 2026, and the outcome could affect everything from your weekly grocery run to your next car purchase.
📢 What’s the Proposal? The amendment would raise Florida’s base sales tax from 6% to 7%, generating billions in new revenue. The funds would be directed toward:
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Upgrading roads, bridges, and public transit
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Boosting public school funding and teacher pay
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Strengthening hurricane and emergency response systems
Supporters say it’s a necessary investment in Florida’s future. Critics argue it’s a regressive tax that hits working families hardest.
💸 How It Could Affect You Let’s break down how this change could impact everyday purchases:
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Groceries: While most grocery items are exempt from sales tax, prepared foods and beverages are not.
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Example: A $50 takeout order would go from $3.00 in tax to $3.50.
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Clothing and Electronics:
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Example: A $200 pair of sneakers would cost $12 in tax now, and $14 under the new rate.
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Big-Ticket Items:
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Example: Buying a $25,000 car would currently add $1,500 in tax. Under the new rate, that jumps to $1,750—an extra $250.
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🚗 Buying a Car? Think Ahead For many Floridians, the biggest impact will be felt when purchasing vehicles. A one-point increase in sales tax could mean hundreds more in upfront costs. Dealers expect a rush of buyers in late 2026 if the amendment looks likely to pass.
🗳️ What Happens Next? To become law, the amendment needs 60% voter approval. Campaigns on both sides are already mobilizing, with town halls, ads, and voter outreach expected to ramp up in early 2026.
If passed, the new tax rate would take effect on January 1, 2027.
📣 Stay Informed Whether you’re for or against the change, understanding how it affects your spending is key. From daily purchases to major investments, this vote could reshape how Floridians budget and buy.
Want help calculating how this tax might affect your household expenses or business costs? I can break it down for you.
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