FOX 13 investigation inspires bill to support disabled first responders
By: Craig Patrick, FOX13news.com
TAMPA, Fla. (FOX 13) – Florida voters gave disabled first responders a tax break. Then a Fox 13 investigation found state lawmakers added exclusions that disqualify many who need help the most. Now state lawmakers are responding to our reports with legislation to lift the restrictions and grant the tax relief as written on the ballot.
In 2016, voters overwhelmingly approved Amendment 3. Based on the language on the ballot, first responders living in Florida are supposed to get an exemption on their property taxes if they are permanently and totally disabled due to injuries sustained in the line of duty.
However, when disabled first responders like Jim Bragg applied, they were rejected, because the legislature added additional restrictions in the enabling legislation.
