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Anticipated voter fatigue could have impact on November ballots

Posted at 6:00 PM, May 17, 2018
and last updated 2018-05-17 18:00:00-04

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (The News Service of Florida) - Anticipated “voter fatigue” is already a concern of backers of a proposed constitutional amendment that would extend a property-tax cap, particularly because approval of the measure will require support from 60 percent of voters. 

When they cast ballots in November, Floridians will decide the fate of the 13 proposed constitutional amendments, in addition to voting on federal, state and local races. 

The long list of ballot proposals worries supporters of Amendment Two, which would extend and make permanent a 10 percent cap on annual increases in assessed values of non-homesteaded properties. 

“We are in a non-presidential election cycle, so there's going to be some voter fatigue and endurance issues, and we want to make sure when they get to Amendment 2 they're going to vote 'yes,'" said Patrick Sleven, Spokesman for the Florida State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. 

Another amendment on the November ballot would ban greyhound racing in the state.

Kate MacFall, the Humane Society's Florida state director, believes the greyhound-racing ban, which she supports, can avoid problems with voter fatigue. 

“We think Amendment 13 is going to stand out and bring a lot of voter support. The reality is that Floridians love dogs," said MacFall. 

In addition to Amendment Two, the Legislature also put two other proposals on the November ballot, while two more amendments are a result of petition drives.

The Constitution Revision Commission added eight amendments, including the greyhound amendment, with six of the measures featuring two or more topics.