In the context of this settlement agreement, did Avis, Inc. cooperate with the government's investigation, and what commitment did Avis demonstrate regarding services to persons with disabilities, which may be relevant to Budget?

According to Budget's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a settlement agreement between the United States Department of Justice and Avis, Inc. indicates that Avis cooperated fully with the government's investigation. The agreement states that Avis demonstrated a strong commitment to providing its services to persons with disabilities without discrimination. This settlement arose from a complaint alleging that Avis failed to provide renters hand controls for the full range of vehicles available to the general public.

This information is relevant to Budget franchisees because it highlights the importance of ADA compliance within the car rental industry. While the agreement specifically involves Avis, Budget urges its licensees to adopt similar policies, including renting vehicles to people with disabilities who are accompanied by a licensed driver, allowing service animals, and waiving additional driver charges for one person accompanying a renter with a disability.

For a prospective Budget franchisee, this underscores the need to understand and adhere to ADA regulations to avoid potential legal issues and to ensure equal access to services for all customers. The FDD includes an announcement that Budget distributes to its licensees and prospective licensees, outlining specific policies related to people with disabilities. Franchisees should familiarize themselves with these policies and ensure their operations are in compliance.