Franchising World August 2013

BY DEAN HEYL 

ACCORDING TO THE NATIONAL Conference of State Legislatures, there are 7,383 state legislators. New Hampshire, alone, has a whopping 400 members in their House of Representatives. With so many elected officials, it is not surprising that some “ill-advised” ideas brought forth by constituents or more often than not by parties with vested interests, are introduced as proposed laws.
   In 2013, the International Franchise Association saw a significant amount of problematic legislation including franchise relationship, worker classification, franchisor reporting of sales, and non-compete bills. IFA fully understands that legislative wins are temporary and will always keep its eyes on the     ball. Of the 7,383 state legislators across the country indicated on page 16, at any time one or more of them might propose a bill that is problematic to the franchise industry.
   As mentioned in last month’s Franchising World, IFA will commit even more of its resources to not only defeat state legislation that is detrimental to the franchise industry, but will also proactively educate legislators about the positive impact franchising has on state economies. The message, “Franchising = Jobs,” is simple, yet powerful. This combined with IFA’s VetFran and DiversityFran programs puts IFA in an excellent position to carry out its mission to “protect, enhance and promote franchising.”  
   The best way you can help IFA fight bad legislation and support favorable measures is to join Franchise Congress as an advocate for our industry. Franchise Congress is a nationwide network of franchisees, franchisors and suppliers that help tell the story of the franchise industry to key legislators at both the state and federal levels. As a leader in the small-business world, your involvement is an essential component of our collective success now and in the years to come.
   To join Franchise Congress and have your voice be heard, contact the IFA’s Senior Director of Political Affairs, Grassroots Advocacy & Multi-Unit Franchisee Engagement Erica Farage at 202-662-0760 or 
efarage@franchise.org  .