Governor Wes Moore signs IFA-backed Franchise Reform Act, marking a major step forward in modernizing the state’s franchise regulatory framework; follows IFA advocacy for implementation of Maryland Fast Track Pilot Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the International Franchise Association (IFA) praised Maryland Gov. Wes Moore for signing the IFA-backed Franchise Reform Act (HB 730/SB 415) into law. The legislation renews Maryland’s Franchise Fast Track Pilot Program, which was launched in October 2025, to streamline franchise registrations in the state.

“This commonsense reform streamlines registration requirements for franchise brands in Maryland and those looking to expand to the state, opening the door to even greater opportunities for small business owners and their employees,” said Matt Haller, IFA President and CEO. “By reducing administrative burdens while preserving strong consumer protections, this balanced approach strengthens transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in the disclosure process.”

In February 2026, Matthew Kagel, IFA Senior Director of State & Local Government Relations, testified in support of the legislation before the Economic Matters Committee Bill Hearing. In addition to renewing the Fast Track Pilot Program, the bill includes new reporting requirements that measure the effectiveness of the program, whether it sped up Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) reviews, and how Maryland’s approach compares to other states. The program will be in effect for six years. More information is available here.

According to IFA’s 2026 Franchising Economic Outlook, Maryland will be the 10^th highest state in franchise growth this year with over 16,000 franchise small businesses in the state.

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[PHOTO: Maryland Gov. Wes Moore signs the Franchise Reform Act (HB 730/SB 415) into law, joined by IFA staff and members.]

About the International Franchise Association:

Celebrating over 60 years of excellence, education, and advocacy, the International Franchise Association (IFA) is the world’s oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. IFA works through its government relations and public policy, media relations, and educational programs to protect, enhance and promote franchising and the more than 832,000 franchise establishments that support nearly 8.8 million direct jobs, $907.3 billion of economic output for the U.S. economy, and almost 3 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). IFA members include franchise companies in over 300 different business format categories, individual franchisees, and companies that support the industry in marketing, law, technology, and business development.