Rick Scott Urges Voters to Back 'Fallen Heroes' Tax Relief

Gov. Rick Scott is urging Floridians to back a property tax break for families of those killed in the line of duty.

For Floridas law enforcement officers and first responders, any routine traffic stop or emergency call can turn into a dangerous situation that can potentially cost their lives, Scott stated in a release issued while he attended abill-signing ceremony in Tampa.

Their selfless service ensures our well-being and safety, and the families of the fallen live each day with the loss of their loved one, Scott continued. The constitutional amendment is one way we can show them our appreciation for their sacrifice.

Scott held the signing ceremony during the 18th Annual Our Heroes Luncheon at the Tampa Convention Center.

The bill was approved in April and signed on Wednesday.

HB 95 created the Fallen Heroes Family Tax Relief Act, which exempts from taxation the homestead property of the surviving spouse of a first responder who dies in the line of duty.

The bill would go into effect if Amendment 2 on the November 2012 ballot, the Homestead Property Tax Exemption for Surviving Spouse of Military Veteran or First Responder, is approved by voters.

The bill exempts from ad valorem taxation (school and nonschool) any homesteaded property owned by the surviving spouse of a first responder who died in the line of duty while employed by the state or any political subdivision of the state, including authorities and special districts.