When it comes to politicians and their platforms, I’ve always had the mindset of “don’t tell me, show me.” If you’re going to make a change, I’m holding my appreciation until it happens. Does that attitude result in more disappointment? Maybe. Does it save me from the drama of broken promises? Definitely. But when the word is kept, I’ll be the first to cheer. And that’s what I’m doing now.
You may recall my excitement last year after hearing Rep. Danny Alvarez speak alongside Florida Sen. Jay Collins at the Citrus Expo in Tampa. Alvarez’s passion for the ranchers and growers of our state was clear and so palpable that it was difficult to rein in my enthusiasm and wait to see whether his promises panned out. They did.
During this Legislative session, Alvarez filed HJR 1215, an ad valorem tax exemption that would put tax cuts for farmers on a statewide ballot in 2026. The Legislature passed the bill, moving us one step closer to tax relief for the hardworking folks in agriculture.
If passed, the resolution would:
- Remove the tangible personal property tax on farmers and ranchers.
- Exempt farm equipment used for agriculture and agritourism from ad valorem taxes.
- Allow farmers to invest more money back into Florida agriculture.
In filing the bill, Alvarez said, “Farmers are the lifeblood of our State and removing barriers to their survival and therefore our own is essential to making sure we have a safe and secure food supply. The Tangible Personal Property tax literally handicaps a struggling sector of our society that we so desperately rely on. Getting rid of it allows Farmers and Ranchers the chance to reinvest their money in themselves in order to [ensure] we all have a better tomorrow.”
Now, it’s time for voters to step up and solidify the breaks Alvarez has lined up.