What claims must be excluded from any general release of claims against Crisp & Green by a franchisee in Minnesota?

According to Crisp & Green's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, any general release of claims that a franchisee or transferor in Minnesota may have against Crisp & Green, its owners, officers, managers, employees, and agents must exclude claims arising under the Minnesota Franchise Act and its associated rules and regulations. This includes claims arising under federal, state, and local laws and regulations. This provision ensures that franchisees and transferors do not waive their rights under Minnesota franchise law when settling disputes or releasing claims against the franchisor.

This requirement is in place to protect franchisees' rights under Minnesota law. The Minnesota Franchise Act provides certain protections to franchisees, and this provision ensures that franchisees cannot be forced to waive those rights through a general release. This protection extends to claims arising from various laws and regulations, offering broad safeguards for franchisees operating in Minnesota.

This stipulation does not prevent the voluntary settlement of disputes. It simply ensures that any release of claims does not inadvertently waive the franchisee's rights under the Minnesota Franchise Act. This allows for a fair resolution of disputes while preserving the franchisee's legal protections under state law.

Prospective Crisp & Green franchisees in Minnesota should be aware of this provision, as it protects their ability to pursue claims under the Minnesota Franchise Act, even after signing a general release. This addendum ensures that franchisees retain their statutory rights and remedies, providing an additional layer of security in their business relationship with Crisp & Green.