This bill amends K.S.A. 60-1110 concerning contractor's and other liens on property, specifically addressing the bonds that property owners can post to secure payment against such liens. The bill stipulates that sureties for these bonds must be licensed to conduct business in Kansas. It also introduces provisions for awarding attorney fees and costs to claimants who have made a written demand for payment to the principal and surety but did not receive payment prior to filing a lawsuit. Additionally, the bill mandates a pretrial hearing within 30 days of the filing of an answer to determine whether the surety should pay the claim amount directly to the claimant or deposit it into a court-held account.

Furthermore, the bill repeals the existing section of K.S.A. 60-1110, streamlining the legal framework surrounding contractor liens and ensuring that the process for securing payment is more efficient and fair for claimants. The changes aim to enhance the protection of individuals who may have claims against contractors or property owners, thereby improving the overall accountability within the construction and contracting industry in Kansas.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 60-1110