What does Minnesota law prohibit Crisp & Green Franchising LLC from requiring regarding litigation?

According to Crisp & Green's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, Minnesota law has specific stipulations regarding where litigation can be conducted. For franchisees in Minnesota, Crisp & Green is prohibited from requiring that any litigation be conducted outside of the state. This protection is ensured by Minn. Stat. Section 80C.21 and Minn. Rule 2860.4400J.

This provision means that if a Crisp & Green franchisee in Minnesota has a legal dispute with the company, they cannot be forced to resolve it in another state. This is particularly relevant because franchise agreements often include clauses that specify the jurisdiction and venue for legal disputes, which could otherwise require a franchisee to travel to the franchisor's home state, potentially incurring significant costs.

Furthermore, the addendum clarifies that nothing in the franchise agreement can diminish any rights granted to the franchisee under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 80C, or their entitlement to any procedure, forum, or remedies provided by Minnesota law. This ensures that Minnesota franchisees retain all legal protections afforded to them under state law, regardless of what the standard franchise agreement might otherwise stipulate.