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Florida cities and counties are defending their use of increased property tax revenue against criticism from state Republicans.

Local governments assert the extra funds are used for essential public services demanded by residents, not on wasteful spending.

Gov. Ron DeSantis is pushing for a constitutional amendment to overhaul property taxes, with the House exploring options.

Florida cities and counties pushed back with data against a steady drumbeat of criticism from Gov. Ron DeSantis and many Florida Republicans who accuse them of lavishly misusing a rise in property tax collections.

In the second day of hearings by a special House committee, representatives of local governments acknowledged that tax revenue has climbed sharply in recent years, powered by

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