Which states with franchise laws require that the Bhc Franchise Disclosure Document be registered or filed, or be exempt from registration?

According to Bhc's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, certain states have franchise laws necessitating the registration or filing of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), or an exemption from registration. Specifically, Bhc identifies fourteen states that mandate this registration, filing, or exemption. These states are California, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.

For a prospective Bhc franchisee, this information is crucial because it highlights the states where Bhc has already complied with franchise registration requirements. This compliance suggests that Bhc is authorized to offer and sell franchises in these states. It also implies that Bhc has undergone a review process by state authorities, which may provide some level of assurance regarding the legitimacy of the franchise offering.

However, franchisees should be aware that franchise laws can vary significantly from state to state. While Bhc's FDD is registered or filed in the listed states, the specific regulations and protections afforded to franchisees may differ. Additionally, the FDD mentions that other states may require registration, filing, or exemption under other laws, such as those regulating business opportunities or seller-assisted marketing plans. Therefore, it is essential for potential franchisees to consult with legal counsel to understand the specific franchise laws in their state and ensure full compliance.

In summary, while Bhc's FDD provides a list of states where it is registered, filed, or exempt from registration, prospective franchisees should not rely solely on this information. They should conduct their own due diligence and seek legal advice to ensure they fully understand the franchise laws in their state and the implications for their investment.