Is the franchisee responsible for ensuring that their employees comply with all applicable laws related to the operation of the Southern Steer business?

According to Southern Steer's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is responsible for ensuring that their employees, Executive Management, agents, and independent contractors comply with all applicable laws, statutes, ordinances, rules, and regulations. This includes compliance with federal, state, city, local, and municipal laws related to the construction or remodeling of the franchised location and the operation of the Southern Steer business.

These laws encompass a wide range of areas, such as health and food service laws, liquor license requirements, health and safety regulations, menu disclosure laws, environmental laws, and employment laws. Employment laws specifically include wage and hour laws, workers' compensation laws, discrimination laws, sexual harassment laws, and disability and discrimination laws. The franchisee must also ensure compliance with credit card and debit card laws applicable to consumers, including all privacy laws, as well as tax laws related to income taxes, sales and use taxes, franchise taxes, and employee withholding taxes.

Furthermore, the franchisee is solely responsible for determining the necessary licenses and permits required for operating the Southern Steer business and for obtaining and complying with all applicable laws related to these licenses and permits. This places a significant burden on the franchisee to stay informed about and adhere to all relevant legal requirements at the federal, state, and local levels.