FL S1716

Revises penalty and interest rates for property owners who unlawfully received homestead exemptions from 15 percent annual interest and 50 percent penalty to interest at the rate in s. 213.235 and a penalty of three times that interest rate (capped at 50 percent of unpaid taxes) annually.

Changes the definition of homestead abandonment by rental to specify that renting "all" (not "substantially all") of a dwelling constitutes abandonment, and allows owners to rent a portion of their homestead while physically occupying it without triggering abandonment.

Extends the lookback period to 10 years for determining unlawful homestead exemptions in all applicable sections (196.011, 196.075, and 196.161).

Requires homestead exemption claimants to notify the property appraiser promptly of any changes in property use or owner status that would affect exemption eligibility.

Takes effect July 1, 2023.