When a land lord is undergoing a loan mod. on a rental and not paying the bank can he collect rent?

Sure.

The contract between the tenant and the landlord is still VERY valid.

In addition, if the landlord loses the property to foreclosure, the tenant needs to be in good standing for the tenant rights laws to be effective.

What your landlord is doing has nothing whatsoever to do with your lease. Your still required to pay rent.