New York Consolidated Laws, General Business Law - GBS § 680. Legislative findings and declaration of policy

1. The legislature hereby finds and declares that the widespread sale of franchises is a relatively new form of business which has created numerous problems in New York.  New York residents have suffered substantial losses where the franchisor or his representative has not provided full and complete information regarding the franchisor-franchisee relationship, the details of the contract between the franchisor and franchisee, the prior business experience of the franchisor, and other factors relevant to the franchise offered for sale.

2. It is hereby determined and declared that the offer and sale of franchises, as defined in this article, is a matter affected with a public interest and subject to the supervision of the state, for the purpose of providing prospective franchisees and potential franchise investors with material details of the franchise offering so that they may participate in the franchise system in a manner that may avoid detriment to the public interest and benefit the commerce and industry of the state.  Further, it is the intent of this law to prohibit the sale of franchises where such sale would lead to fraud or a likelihood that the franchisor's promises would not be fulfilled.