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MD HB992

Bill

Status

Engrossed

3/17/2025

Primary Sponsor

Marc Korman

Click for details

Origin

House of Delegates

2025 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Extends the Securities Commissioner's enforcement window from 3 to 5 years after a franchise law violation occurs

  • Modifies the statute of limitations for franchise liability actions to the earlier of 5 years after the franchise grant, or 3 years after grant/2 years after the franchise opens to the public

  • Prohibits franchisors from restricting or inhibiting franchisees' rights to join trade associations or freely associate with other franchisees for lawful purposes, with civil remedies including injunctive relief, damages, and attorney's fees

  • Establishes a 6-year pilot program (expiring September 30, 2031) for expedited review of franchise registration renewal applications when registrants file required documents within 30 calendar days after their fiscal year ends

  • Takes effect October 1, 2025

Legislative Description

Business Regulation - Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law - Alterations (Franchise Reform Act)

Disclosure

Last Action

Hearing 3/25 at 1:00 p.m.

3/18/2025

Committee Referrals

Finance3/17/2025
Economic Matters1/31/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available