The Florida House voted Thursday to approve a property tax reduction bill, marking a key step in a legislative effort to ease the financial burden on homeowners across the state. The measure, which would lower the state's share of property taxes for school districts and counties, now moves to the Senate for consideration. If signed into law, the changes could affect millions of Florida residents, including those in Brevard County. The bill, HB 1117, would reduce the state's portion of property taxes from 62% to 53% for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, with further reductions planned in subsequent years. Supporters argue the move would help families facing rising housing costs, while critics warn it could strain local government budgets. State Rep. Randy Fine, a Brevard County resident and co-sponsor of the bill, said the tax cut would provide relief to homeowners. 'This is about giving families more money to keep in their pockets,' Fine said during a floor debate. 'We've seen property values soar, but taxes have kept pace even as services have been cut.' The bill faces challenges in the Senate, where lawmakers have expressed concerns about the long-term impact on education funding. A bipartisan group of senators is expected to propose amendments before a final vote. If passed, the law would take effect July 1, 2025. Local officials in Brevard County have not yet commented on the legislation, but county officials estimated in 2023 that the state's tax share accounts for about $250 million annually. With the state's population growing rapidly, the debate over property taxes is expected to remain a focal point in upcoming legislative sessions.