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Kansas lawmakers have introduced Senate Bill 415, a measure aimed at giving renters stronger legal protections when their homes become unsafe or unlivable.

The bill, carried by Sen. Douglas Shane, would change state law so that certain violations by landlords, especially when a rental home is left in an uninhabitable condition, can be treated under the Kansas Consumer Protection Act. Under current law, such issues are handled mainly under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. The new proposal would allow tenants to use consumer protection rules and legal tools when their landlord’s actions or inaction make their home unsafe.

If passed, landlords would be treated like “suppliers” and tenants like “consumers” under consumer protection law. That could make it easier for renters to seek enforcement or remedies when serious problems arise. Supporters say the change will strengthen tenant rights. Opponents have not yet publicly weighed in.

The bill was introduced January 28 and referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee for review.