In Washington, what effect do statements, questionnaires, or acknowledgments signed by a Bambu franchisee have on waiving claims under state franchise law?
Bambu Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
FOR WASHINGTON FRANCHISEES ONLY:
A release or waiver of rights executed by a franchisee may not include rights under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, RCW 19.100, or any rule or order thereunder except when executed pursuant to a negotiated settlement after the agreement is in effect and where the parties are represented by independent counsel.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 52–209)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bambu's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a Washington rider to the franchise agreement addresses the effect of signed documents on waiving claims under state franchise law. Specifically, a statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgment signed by a Bambu franchisee in Washington in connection with starting the franchise will not waive claims under Washington's franchise law. This includes claims of fraud.
This provision protects franchisees by ensuring they do not unintentionally give up their legal rights through standard documents signed when beginning the franchise relationship. This protection supersedes any other conflicting terms in any document related to the franchise agreement.
However, this protection does not apply to negotiated settlements reached after the franchise agreement is already in effect, provided that both parties are represented by independent legal counsel. This exception allows for flexibility in resolving disputes through negotiation while ensuring franchisees have proper representation.