Speaking of the FTC, as the sole agency in the federal government with any significant degree of oversight of the franchise industry, it is important to note that the Chairwoman Lina Khan, confirmed by the U.S. Senate back in June, released a memorandum last week that clearly outlined her vision and priorities for the agency during her three-year tenure. In the September 22 Memorandum to agency staff and Commissioners, she outlined the major components of her vision in three categories: Strategic Approach, Policy Priorities and Operational Objectives. Perhaps most importantly we noted that under the category of Policy Priorities, Khan specifically commits to “taking aim at the ways in which certain contract terms, particularly those that are imposed in take-it-or-leave-it contracts, constitute unfair methods of competition or unfair or deceptive practices.” She went on to state that “[C]onsumers, workers, franchisees and other market participants are at a significant disadvantage when they are unable to negotiate freely over terms and conditions.” She also promises a focus on contractual provisions “that hamper a free and fair economy.” Welcome Chairwoman Khan, we look forward to working with you!