HI HB1000

Voids any provision in a franchise agreement that restricts jurisdiction or venue to a forum outside Hawaii, making such provisions voidable at the franchisee's option for claims arising under or relating to a Hawaii franchise.

Requires franchisors selling franchises in Hawaii to remain amenable to the jurisdiction of Hawaii courts and subject to Hawaii's franchise investment law regulations.

Addresses the impracticality and hardship of requiring Hawaii franchisees to adjudicate disputes in out-of-state forums, particularly given Hawaii's geographic isolation and the typical location of witnesses and evidence within the state.

Promotes consistent development of Hawaii judicial precedent regarding franchisor-franchisee disputes by keeping such disputes in Hawaii courts rather than foreign forums.

Takes effect on July 1, 2112.