NewsMySuncoast / WWSB (ABC Sarasota)August 24, 2026Sarasota County
Florida Policy Institute report warns Amendment 3 could shift hurricane recovery costs to local governments
A new report from the Florida Policy Institute suggests that if Amendment 3 passes, local governments in counties like Bay, Sarasota, and Taylor could face financial strain by covering the majority of their annual budgets for storm recovery costs. The analysis indicates that potential changes to FEMA funding structures under the proposed measure may reduce federal support for disaster recovery.
Read the full story at MySuncoast / WWSB (ABC Sarasota)Why It Matters
The passage of could fundamentally alter how local governments fund disaster recovery, potentially requiring them to absorb costs previously covered by federal aid, which may impact local tax dollars and public services.
Key Facts
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Who's Mentioned
locationTaylor County“A county identified as potentially facing significant budget impacts.”organizationFEMA“The federal agency responsible for disaster recovery funding.”locationBay County“A county identified as potentially facing significant budget impacts.”organizationSave our Services“Opposes Amendment 3.”otherAmendment 3“The ballot measure being analyzed for its financial impact.”organizationFlorida Policy Institute“Authored the report on disaster funding costs.”personJackson Peel“Communications director for Save our Services.”organizationCongressional Research Service“Reported on changes to FEMA reimbursement models.”locationLeon County“Cited as an example of potential budget loss.”locationSarasota County“A county identified as potentially facing significant budget impacts.”personEthan Frey“Visiting Fellow at Florida Policy Institute.”organizationFEMA Review Council“Recommended that states lead disaster response.”organizationUrban Institute“Analyzed national disaster cost shifts.”