How is Exhibit G to the Canine Dimensions FDD amended regarding releases, estoppels, or waivers of liability?
Canine_Dimensions Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Section 14-226 of the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law prohibits a franchisor from requiring a prospective franchisee to assent to any release, estoppel or waiver of liability as a condition of purchasing a franchise.
Any disclaimer regarding the occurrence and/or acknowledgment of the nonoccurrence of acts that would constitute a violation of the Franchise Law in order to purchase the franchise are not intended to nor shall they act as a release, estoppel or waiver of any liability incurred under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law.
This amends Exhibit G to the Disclosure Document and Schedule D to the Franchise Agreement, the Franchisee Disclosure Acknowledgment Statement.
The appropriate sections of the Franchise Agreement are also amended accordingly.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Canine Dimensions' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Exhibit G to the FDD, along with Schedule D to the Franchise Agreement (the Franchisee Disclosure Acknowledgment Statement), is amended to clarify that disclaimers regarding actions that might violate franchise law will not act as a release, estoppel, or waiver of liability under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. This amendment ensures that franchisees in Maryland retain their rights and protections under Maryland franchise law, regardless of any disclaimers or acknowledgments made during the franchise purchase.
This amendment is further supported by the statement that Section 14-226 of the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law prohibits Canine Dimensions from requiring a prospective franchisee to assent to any release, estoppel, or waiver of liability as a condition of purchasing a franchise. This reinforces the protection for franchisees against unknowingly waiving their rights under Maryland law. The Franchise Agreement is also amended to reflect these changes, ensuring consistency across all relevant documents.
In practical terms, this means that if a prospective Canine Dimensions franchisee is located in Maryland, any agreement they sign will not prevent them from pursuing claims under Maryland franchise law. This provides an added layer of security for franchisees, ensuring they can seek legal recourse if they believe Canine Dimensions has violated the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. This amendment aims to protect franchisees' rights and ensure compliance with Maryland state law.