Does the Bft Franchise Agreement waive any liability the Franchisor may have under the Washington Investment Protection Act, RCW 19.100?

According to Bft's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Franchise Agreement does not waive any liability that Bft may have under the Washington Investment Protection Act, RCW 19.100, and the rules adopted thereunder. This protection extends to both the standard Franchise Agreement and the Multi-Unit Agreement.

This means that Bft franchisees in Washington State retain their rights and protections under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act. The franchise agreement cannot force a franchisee to waive these rights. This ensures that franchisees have legal recourse in case of disputes or violations of the Act.

Furthermore, any provisions within the franchise agreement that conflict with the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act are considered void and unenforceable in Washington. This includes restrictions on soliciting or hiring employees of other Bft franchisees or Bft itself, as prohibited by RCW 49.62.060. The FDD also states that RCW 19.100.180 may supersede the franchise agreement in areas of termination and renewal, and court decisions may also supersede the franchise agreement in these areas.

In the event of legal proceedings, the arbitration or mediation site for a Bft franchise purchased in Washington will be in Washington, unless otherwise agreed upon. Franchisees can also bring actions related to franchise sales or violations of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act in Washington courts, provided litigation isn't precluded by the franchise agreement.