What is the requirement for a Casiola franchisee to sign the Maryland amendment to the Franchise Agreement?

According to the 2024 Casiola Franchise Disclosure Document, the Maryland Franchise Agreement Amendment is required to be signed by both parties, the franchisor and the franchisee, on the same date as the Franchise Agreement was executed. This requirement ensures that both parties acknowledge and agree to the modifications and additions to the standard Franchise Agreement that are necessary to comply with Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law.

The Maryland amendment addresses specific legal considerations within the state. It clarifies that certain provisions in the standard Franchise Agreement are modified to protect the franchisee's rights under Maryland law. These modifications include the franchisee's right to bring a lawsuit in Maryland for claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law, and that any general release required as a condition of renewal, sale, or transfer does not apply to liabilities under Maryland law.

This amendment reflects Casiola's effort to comply with state-specific franchise regulations and to ensure that franchisees operating in Maryland are afforded the protections guaranteed by Maryland law. By signing the amendment, the franchisee acknowledges these modifications and agrees to operate the franchise in accordance with the amended terms. This process is typical in franchising, as franchisors often need to make state-specific amendments to their franchise agreements to comply with local laws.