New Kansas law lets some renters clear eviction records after 3 years

 A new Kansas law took effect Tuesday giving renters with eviction records the ability to petition to have those records cleared.

Kansas Legal Services says more than 16,000 renters face eviction every year in the state. Under the new law, tenants who go three years without receiving another eviction on their record can apply to have the prior eviction expunged.

Casey Johnson, Director of Advocacy and Litigation at Kansas Legal Services, said the eligibility threshold is tied to a three-year clean record.

“If a tenant has an eviction on their record, and they go three years without getting another on their record, they can ask to have that expunged,” Johnson said.

Renters do not need an attorney to apply. The Kansas courts have launched a free online portal where tenants can file for expungement on their own.

Brandee Collins, a Kansas City renter, said an eviction record has followed her for years, limiting her housing options.

“It just happened to be one of those times where I’m in school, but then I’m also paying for school. I’m paying for debt, trying to get everything together,” Collins said.

Collins said the law represents more than a legal remedy.

“I get a second chance at life, but I also get a second chance to prove I am worthy of a place to live,” Collins said.

Johnson said the effects of the law are expected to extend beyond individual renters.

“It’s gonna be great for communities. Then they’re not gonna have the secondary affects of homelessness of having to pay for shelters and other kinds of services,” Johnson said.

Collins echoed that view, saying access to stable housing affects a wide range of people.

“We all don’t come from a two parent household. Some people have babies. And then some people they’re doing this on their own. We all need access to resources,” Collins said.

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