When is a release or waiver of rights valid for a Bee Organized franchisee in Washington?
Bee_Organized Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
A release or waiver of rights in the franchise agreement or related agreements purporting to bind the franchisee to waive compliance with any provision under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act or any rules or orders thereunder is void except when executed pursuant to a negotiated settlement after the agreement is in effect and where the parties are represented by independent counsel, in accordance with RCW 19.100.220(2).
In addition, any such release or waiver executed in connection with a renewal or transfer of a franchise is likewise void except as provided for in RCW 19.100.220(2).
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 54–218)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bee Organized's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a release or waiver of rights by a franchisee in Washington is generally void if it requires the franchisee to waive compliance with any provision of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act. However, there is an exception: such a release or waiver is valid if it is executed as part of a negotiated settlement after the franchise agreement is already in effect. In this case, both parties must be represented by independent legal counsel, and the agreement must comply with RCW 19.100.220(2).
This means that Bee Organized franchisees in Washington cannot be forced to sign away their rights under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act at the outset of the agreement. This protection ensures that franchisees retain their legal rights and remedies under state law.
However, the FDD also states that even releases or waivers executed in connection with a renewal or transfer of a Bee Organized franchise are void unless they meet the conditions specified in RCW 19.100.220(2). This reinforces the importance of independent legal representation and a genuine negotiated settlement when any release or waiver is contemplated during the franchise relationship. Franchisees should seek legal counsel to ensure full compliance with Washington law.