For the nearly 15,000 franchisees in California, franchising actualizes the American Dream. Franchises offer aspiring small-business owners the rare opportunity to establish ownership and build wealth with the pre-laid foundation of a brand, standardized services, and a network of resources. Historically underrepresented groups in business ownership, particularly women, minorities, and immigrants, gravitate towards the franchise industry. In comparison to their 20% ownership of California’s non-franchise businesses, minorities comprise 30% of franchise owners. It is said that franchisees are in business for themselves, but not by themselves.

California franchises provide jobs for close to 750,000 workers, many of whom may struggle to find employment elsewhere. These workers often form close relationships with their employers, the franchisees, who then provide opportunities for advancements within the franchise system. The employees and franchisees both play vital roles in facilitating the operation of the franchise structure, which in turn feeds millions of Californians. Franchise restaurants account for a large portion of Californians’ out-of-home dining.

The California Assembly’s AB 257, known as the “Fast Food Accountability and Standards Recovery Act” or “FAST Act,” poses an imminent threat to franchised and non-franchised restaurant businesses, restaurant workers, and consumers of the Golden State. The FAST Act aims to establish a Fast Food Sector Council and set...

Read Full Story: https://www.forbes.com/sites/tonymarks/2022/08/19/californias-fast-act-puts-f...