In Maryland, are representations requiring prospective Spray Net franchisees to assent to a release, estoppel, or waiver of liability intended to act as a release, estoppel, or waiver of any liability incurred under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law?

According to Spray Net's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, representations requiring prospective franchisees in Maryland to agree to a release, estoppel, or waiver of liability are not intended to act as a release, estoppel, or waiver of any liability incurred under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. This protection is explicitly stated within the Maryland Addendum to the Franchise Agreement. This means that any agreement signed by a franchisee cannot waive their rights or the franchisor's obligations under Maryland franchise law.

This provision ensures that Spray Net franchisees in Maryland retain their legal rights and protections under Maryland franchise law, regardless of any general releases or waivers they might sign. It specifically prevents the franchisor from using such clauses to avoid liability under Maryland's franchise regulations. This addendum aims to protect franchisees from unknowingly relinquishing their rights.

Furthermore, the Maryland Addendum clarifies that any provision in the agreement that sets a time limit for filing a lawsuit does not apply to actions brought under Maryland Franchise Law, Business Regulation Article, §14-227, Annotated Code of Maryland. Franchisees have three years after being granted the franchise to bring an action under this law. The addendum also affirms the franchisee's right to file a lawsuit in Maryland courts for any cause of action arising under the Maryland Franchise Law, reinforcing their legal recourse within the state.