At the end of last week, state Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis threw his support behind a proposal that expands the Florida Home Hardening Initiative passed in the 2022 Legislative Session.
This legislation establishes a two-year sales tax exemption on the retail sales of items like impact-resistant windows, doors, and garage doors. This legislation will expand the program, which ends in June 2024, to June 2026. Overall the Florida Home Hardening program has saved homeowners an estimated $495 million since July 2022.
Patronis said, “The Florida Home Hardening initiative is an incredible help to Floridians, as homeowners have saved an estimated $495 million in tax dollars since July 2022. Together, with the My Safe Florida Home program, we have used every tool in the toolbox to help insurance consumers lower their premiums and combat rising insurance rates in our state. I am grateful to Senator Jim Boyd and Representative Wayman Duggan for filing this legislation to expand upon the amazing success of this program. This bill will allow Floridians to strengthen their homes by installing impact-resistant items like windows, doors, and garage doors that will make them eligible for insurance premium savings. Unfortunately, Mother Nature loves paradise, and in Florida it’s not if, but when a hurricane is going to make its way to our state. That’s why I am urging all Floridians to make use this program before the next hurricane season to harden and protect your biggest investment – your home.”
State Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, said, “This legislation is a game changer for Florida residents and homeowners across the state. My thanks to CFO Patronis for helping us put Florida consumers first and giving Floridians a chance to lower their insurance costs and increase their standard of living.”
State Rep. Wyman Duggan, R-Jacksonville, said, “I was proud to file this legislation and look forward to ushering it through the process in the Florida House. Thank you to CFO Patronis for advocating for the Florida Home Hardening Initiative over the past two years and for supporting this expansion that will bring millions more dollars in additional savings to Florida homeowners.”
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