Florida, also called the “Sunshine State,” is considering a big change in how it uses its tourism tax revenue. If a new law is passed, millions of Floridians could get tax refunds, offering financial relief to property owners. This idea is still under discussion, but if approved, it could bring important changes starting in July 2025.
Let’s understand what Florida HB 7033 is all about, who could benefit, and what the potential risks are.
What Is Florida HB 7033?
Introduced in 2025, HB 7033 aims to allow counties in Florida to use tourism development tax money for local projects or property tax refunds.
Currently, this money funds tourism promotion, beach maintenance, and facilities like Raymond James Stadium. The bill, led by Rep. Monique Miller (R-Palm Bay), proposes redirecting up to 50% of these funds for purposes that directly benefit residents.
On April 22, 2025, HB 7033 passed through the House Budget Committee. To become law, it must be approved by both legislative chambers before May 2, 2025. If passed, the law will take effect on July 1, 2025.
What Could Change if HB 7033 Becomes Law?
If approved:
- Counties could use half of the tourism tax money for property tax refunds or infrastructure improvements.
- In places like Tampa Bay, where tourism is a major employer (supporting 33% of hospitality jobs and 15.4 million visitors annually), these changes could shift how the economy operates.
- The plan could return about $150 million to residents each year.
Arguments For and Against HB 7033
Supporters
Many citizens and some politicians believe that it’s time for tax relief.
Rep. Linda Chaney (R-St. Pete Beach) and others argue that property taxes are a heavy burden. Giving back part of the tourism revenue could offer meaningful financial relief. In Hillsborough County, for example, property taxes generate about $1.5 billion a year — returning $150 million would be a modest but helpful boost for many homeowners.
Critics
Tourism experts and local organizations strongly oppose the idea.
Groups like Destinations Florida warn that cutting tourism marketing budgets could hurt the economy. Robert Skrob, executive director, called the plan “economic sabotage,” pointing to Colorado’s experience in the 1990s, where cutting tourism funding caused a loss of $2 billion annually.
The Florida Shore and Beach Preservation Association adds that reducing funds for beach conservation could lead to serious erosion problems, especially in popular areas like Clearwater Beach, hurting future tourism.
In counties like Nassau, tourism accounts for 36% of all jobs, showing how important it is to protect this industry.
Some Tax Benefits Floridians Already Enjoy
Florida residents have benefited from property tax rules in the past too:
- Early payment discounts: If you pay your property taxes early, you can get a 4% discount if paid by November.
- Homestead Exemption: If you live in your home full-time, you can get up to $50,000 off the taxable value of your property, reducing your annual tax bill.
- Appealing property appraisals: If you feel the government has overvalued your home, you can appeal and possibly get a refund for past overpayments.
These programs show that Florida already offers ways for residents to save money, and HB 7033 could add another option.