WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 2454

Providing that under rental agreements governed by the residential landlord tenant act, a landlord is required to accept partial payments and to count certain income when considering a tenant or prospective tenant's qualifications for housing.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Leah Howell and 2 co-sponsors

Kansas bill requires landlords to accept partial rent payments and recognize expanded income sources when screening tenants under residential lease agreements.

Died in Committee
#consumerprotection #realestate
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2454

Legislative bill overview

HB 2454 requires Kansas landlords to accept partial rent payments from tenants and mandates that landlords count certain types of income when evaluating tenant qualifications under the state's Residential Landlord Tenant Act. The bill aims to expand housing access and financial flexibility for renters by preventing landlords from outright rejecting incomplete payments and broadening what qualifies as acceptable income documentation.

Why is this important

This bill addresses two practical barriers to housing access: tenants facing temporary cash flow difficulties and those whose income comes from non-traditional sources (such as gig work, benefits, or irregular employment). By requiring partial payment acceptance and expanded income recognition, the bill could prevent evictions and expand housing eligibility, though it fundamentally alters the contractual relationship between landlords and tenants regarding payment terms.

Potential points of contention

  • Payment incentive concerns: Landlords argue that accepting partial payments without clear repayment terms could enable rent avoidance and complicate collection efforts, while tenant advocates note that flexibility prevents homelessness during temporary hardship
  • Income definition ambiguity: The bill's reference to "certain income" lacks specificity—what income types are included? Disagreement likely exists over whether benefits, informal work, or future promised income should count
  • Lease enforcement: Allowing unilateral modification of agreed payment terms may conflict with contract freedom principles and could discourage landlords from renting to lower-income applicants if they cannot enforce strict terms

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.