Florida Voters Will Decide Amendment 1 in November

The proposed ballot measure seeks to significantly increase the state's budget stabilization fund cap.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Elections

Isometric editorial illustration of a heavy vault block hovering above a stylized Florida map, representing state budget policy. — Florida voters will cast ballots in November 2026 on Amendment 1, which proposes increasing the state's budget stabilization fund cap to 25 percent of general revenue. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should your state government increase the cap on its rainy day savings fund?

On November 3, 2026, Florida voters will cast ballots on Amendment 1, a measure that seeks to raise the state's budget stabilization fund cap to 25 percent of general revenue. If passed, the change would require the legislature to set aside up to $750 million annually to build the reserve.

Why it matters

The state maintains this fund to manage fiscal emergencies, including revenue shortfalls or critical infrastructure needs. Raising the cap would allow Florida to hold significantly larger reserves for future financial stability.

The proposed measure requires 60 percent voter approval to pass. If it clears that threshold, the new cap takes effect on January 5, 2027.

The players

Florida Legislature

This governing body is responsible for state lawmaking and would be mandated to oversee the annual budget transfers if the amendment passes.

The details

Amendment 1 would move the current reserve limit from 10 percent of general revenue to 25 percent. The legislature would be tasked with transferring up to $750 million annually to reach the new limit, though exceptions for urgent needs or severe revenue shortfalls are included.

November 3, 2026: Election day for Florida voters to decide on the amendment.
January 5, 2027: The date the measure takes effect if it receives sufficient voter approval.

Political Context

Opponents often argue that locking away large sums of money in rainy day funds limits the legislature's ability to address immediate public service needs during prosperous years. This creates a recurring legislative tension between maintaining fiscal safety nets and funding active state programs.

The passage of Amendment 1 would effectively dictate how a portion of state general revenue is managed over the long term. Voters should consider how this policy might limit or prioritize state funding availability for future public services.

The takeaway

Voters must reach a 60 percent consensus to ratify this increase to the state reserve fund. Understanding the mechanics of budget stabilization is key to evaluating how Florida prepares for future economic volatility.