Far-reaching measure’s impact also affects overtime pay, union organizing efforts. Franchisees urged to join industry push against measures in Washington, D.C. Sept. 13-14.

“The threat of unlimited, unpredictable joint-employer liability is very scary. It threatens everything my partners and colleagues have worked to build in our community.” — SoldierFit CEO and founder Danny Farrar, testifying before Congress in opposition to the joint-employer rule.

Almost halfway through 2016, legislative challenges still await the franchise industry before the year’s end. IFA is already making proactive and defensive plans for 2017, including the possibility of new joint employer legislation.

IFA’s state association allies remain strong frontlines of defense and offense for the franchise business model.

Robert Cresanti's reflections on the 2016 presidential election.

A primary topic of discussion at #IFA2016 has been the franchise industry's response to attempts by U.S. federal regulators to impose a new definition of “joint employer” on the nation’s small business owners and upend the franchise business model. At the Opening General Session on Sunday, convention attendees were welcomed by two Texas lawmakers who have been champions for the franchise industry in Congress: Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) and Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas).