Does the general release required for renewal, sale, or assignment/transfer of a Casiola franchise apply to liability under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law?

According to Casiola's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, the general release required as a condition of renewal, sale, and/or assignment/transfer of a Casiola franchise does not apply to any liability under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. This means that even if a franchisee signs a general release when renewing, selling, or transferring their franchise, they do not waive their rights to pursue claims under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law.

This protection ensures that franchisees in Maryland retain their legal rights under state franchise law, regardless of any general releases they may sign. Casiola franchisees in Maryland can still bring a lawsuit in Maryland for claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. However, any claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law must be brought within three years after the grant of the franchise.

This amendment to the franchise agreement specifically addresses the requirements of the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law, providing additional clarity and protection for franchisees operating in Maryland. This type of amendment is common in franchise agreements to ensure compliance with state-specific franchise laws, which can vary significantly.