FSU, Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare Oppose Proposed Hospital Tax

Florida State University and Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare jointly announced today they do not support the creation of a special hospital taxing district in Leon County, a development that could impact funding for the planned “FSU Health” academic medical center.

The opposition surfaced after State Representative Allison Tant publicly raised concerns about a proposal reportedly floated by a pro-business political committee to fund the new healthcare system through a special tax. In a joint statement released yesterday, FSU and TMH stated, “Let us be clear: Florida State University and Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare do not support the creation of a special hospital taxing district in Leon County or anywhere else.”

Bugra Demirel, chairperson for Grow Tallahassee, who was identified by Tant as having initially suggested the tax idea, also released a statement aligning with FSU and TMH. “Grow Tallahassee agrees with FSU and TMH, and opposes any additional tax burden on our residents and businesses,” Demirel said. “As part of the FSU-TMH partnership to create an academic medical center, FSU will be footing the bill on behalf of the entire community.” The future of FSU Health is a significant issue for Tallahassee, as it aims to address growing healthcare needs in the region. Representative Tant echoed the sentiment, stating she was “relieved to learn last night that FSU is also opposed to a taxing district” and pledged to fight the proposal.

Negotiations continue regarding the final details of the partnership, including the composition of the FSU Health board. Currently, the Tallahassee City Commission is considering the sale of the hospital to FSU, and officials say the focus remains on strengthening the collaboration to enhance healthcare access and improve outcomes for residents. Florida Politics has more on the board composition debate. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services provides information on hospital partnerships and funding.

The Tallahassee City Commission will ultimately decide whether to sell the hospital to FSU and at what price, with final details still being worked out.