In Washington, can RCW 19.100.180 supersede provisions in the Jersey Mikes franchise agreement concerning the franchisee's relationship with the franchisor?

According to Jersey Mikes's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, RCW 19.100.180, which is part of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, may indeed supersede certain provisions within the franchise agreement or related agreements that govern the franchisee's relationship with Jersey Mikes. This includes aspects related to the termination and renewal of the franchise. This means that certain terms in the franchise agreement might not be enforceable if they conflict with the rights and protections provided to franchisees under Washington law.

This protection ensures that franchisees operating in Washington are afforded the full rights and benefits as outlined in the state's Franchise Investment Protection Act. It prevents Jersey Mikes from enforcing terms that might undermine those rights, particularly in critical areas like franchise termination and renewal. Franchisees should be aware of these potential conflicts and understand that state law may offer greater protection than the standard franchise agreement.

For a prospective Jersey Mikes franchisee in Washington, this is a crucial consideration. It's advisable to carefully review the franchise agreement with legal counsel to identify any clauses that might be superseded by Washington law. Understanding these interactions between the franchise agreement and state law can help a franchisee protect their investment and ensure fair treatment throughout the franchise term. Franchisees should also stay informed about any court decisions that could further impact the enforceability of specific provisions in the franchise agreement.