Leon County Circuit Court Judge John C. Cooper in Tallahassee just issued an order striking Amendment #5, the "tax swap" amendment, from the November 2008 ballot. This order will likely be appealed in the coming days.
The Florida Association of Health Underwriters (FAHU) has previously joined forces with Protect Florida's Future, a diverse coalition of educators, business owners, and health care providers opposed to Amendment 5. Dubbed by Florida Tax Watch as a "tax swap," Amendment 5 would eliminate some property taxes that fund education, but raise billions in new taxes that threaten the state's economy and consumers alike.
"Amendment 5 is a classic bait-and switch," said Dave Gentry, FAHU President. "It provides some property tax relief, but then requires billions in new taxes." What's even worse, state lawmakers could begin taxing professional services. This means that when you go see a doctor or consult an agent to buy insurance, you'll have to pay more. As the state struggles to constrain medical costs and provide insurance coverage to the uninsured, Amendment 5 is a cure that is worse than the disease.
"Property tax relief is an admirable goal, but Amendment 5 is not the solution. Voters should reject this amendment and encourage their elected officials to reduce property taxes in a more responsible way."
About the Florida Association of Health Underwriters (FAHU):
The Florida Association of Health Underwriters mission is to protect the consumer's future. To accomplish our mission, we will strengthen the insurance marketplace by advocating effective legislation, ethical leadership and professional standards, and by educating our members and the consumers they serve. For more information visit our website at www.fahu.org.