For a Ledgers franchise in Washington, what is the effect of RCW 19.100.180(2)(j) on buy-back provisions?

According to the 2025 Ledgers Franchise Disclosure Document, for franchises in Washington, RCW 19.100.180(2)(j) impacts the franchisor's ability to repurchase a franchisee's business. Specifically, provisions that allow Ledgers to repurchase the franchisee's business during the franchise term without the franchisee's consent are unlawful.

However, there is an exception to this rule. Ledgers is permitted to repurchase the franchise if the franchise agreement is terminated for good cause. This means that if the franchisee breaches the agreement or otherwise provides a legitimate reason for termination, Ledgers can then repurchase the business, even without the franchisee's consent.

This protection ensures that Ledgers franchisees in Washington cannot be arbitrarily forced to sell their businesses back to the franchisor during the term of the agreement unless there is a justifiable reason for termination. This provision aims to protect the franchisee's investment and business operations from unwarranted interference by the franchisor, providing a more balanced relationship between Ledgers and its Washington franchisees.