WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 388

Setting a maximum fee for the late payment of rent under the residential landlord and tenant act.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Cindy Holscher

Kansas bill caps late rent fees landlords can charge tenants, protecting renters from excessive penalties while guaranteeing landlords baseline compensation.

Died in Committee
#realestate
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 388

Legislative bill overview

SB 388 would establish a statutory cap on late fees that landlords can charge tenants for overdue rent payments under Kansas's residential landlord-tenant law. Currently, Kansas law does not specify a maximum limit on late fees, allowing landlords to set them at whatever amount they choose in lease agreements.

Why is this important

Late fees can significantly increase a tenant's financial burden during periods of hardship, potentially pushing struggling renters into eviction. Setting a maximum fee creates a predictable, standardized limit that protects tenants from excessive charges while still allowing landlords reasonable compensation for payment delays.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition of "reasonable": The bill's language will determine whether the cap is 5%, 10%, or another percentage of monthly rent, creating debate over what fairly compensates landlords for administrative costs and collection efforts
  • Landlord opposition: Property owners may argue caps reduce incentive for timely payment and don't cover actual costs of late rent (legal fees, lost income, administrative burden)
  • Tenant advocacy support vs. housing supply concerns: While tenant advocates support limits on fees, some argue strict caps could reduce rental supply or increase baseline rents to offset landlord losses

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

Sign in to ask a question.