Veteran Franchise Owner Advocates for Local Business Rights in Washington, D.C.

Restoration 1 of Metro Detroit owner Chris Kushmaul joins fellow franchisees to support the American Franchisee Act

When it comes to protecting the future of locally owned businesses, Restoration 1 franchise owner Chris Kushmaul is leading by example. The U.S. Army veteran and owner of Restoration 1 of Metro Detroit and Restoration 1 of Clawson recently traveled to Washington, D.C. to meet with lawmakers and support the newly introduced American Franchisee Act, a bipartisan bill focused on protecting the independence of franchise owners nationwide.

The American Franchisee Act, supported by seven Democrats and seven Republicans, addresses a growing concern within the franchise industry known as co-employment, or “joint-employer” status. This legal concept could make both franchisors and franchisees liable as the same employer for workers within a local business.

For Restoration 1 and other franchise brands, this distinction is essential. Franchisors set brand standards to ensure consistency in operations, training, and customer service, while franchisees manage their own employees, hiring, and day-to-day operations. Without clear legal boundaries, franchisors could pull back on support, leaving franchise owners with fewer resources to run and grow their businesses.

The American Franchisee Act helps solve that issue by clarifying that franchisors are not automatically considered employers of franchisee staff unless they directly control hiring, firing, pay, or scheduling. The Act protects the foundation of the franchise model by allowing franchisors to provide support and training while ensuring local owners remain independent employers.

“Franchise owners like myself want to grow and serve our communities without being caught in unnecessary legal confusion,” Kushmaul said. “This bill helps make sure we can stay independent business owners while still benefiting from the strength of a trusted national brand.”

For Restoration 1, this advocacy reflects the heart of the company’s mission to empower entrepreneurs to build meaningful, service-driven businesses in their communities. Veterans like Chris bring strong leadership, discipline, and purpose to their businesses, making them natural fits for the franchise model.

By supporting the American Franchisee Act, Chris and other small business owners are helping to secure the future of local franchise ownership for generations to come. Their efforts ensure that franchisees can operate independently while still receiving the brand support they need to succeed.

If you are a veteran or entrepreneur looking to own a business that makes a real impact, Restoration 1 offers franchise opportunities across the country. You can build a restoration business that helps families and businesses recover from disaster while maintaining the freedom and flexibility of local ownership.

Learn more about how to buy a Restoration 1 franchise and join a network of dedicated owners like Chris Kushmaul who are shaping the future of small business ownership.