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October 1, 2025

Government Shutdown Halts Agency Activity

At midnight last night, the U.S. federal government officially shut down after a partisan standoff between Democrats and Republicans over congressional spending.

Why it matters: A government shutdown would immediately require federal agencies to cease all non-essential discretionary functions until new funding is approved. Franchise businesses would primarily feel the impact through delays in services, including the halting of most Small Business Administration (SBA) loan approvals and processing.

What’s next: This is the first time the government has shut down since 2018 when it shut down for thirty-five days. View IFA’s statement calling on Congress to come to an agreement here.

IFA Hosts Congressional Black Caucus Leaders

Last week, IFA’s Black Franchise Leadership Council (BFLC) hosted its 2nd annual Champions of Franchising Reception at the new IFA office during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference. 

Why it matters: The event brought together key lawmakers and IFA members to celebrate African American leaders in franchising—highlighting franchising’s role in building generational wealth and strengthening communities. 

The takeaway: IFA members continue to build relationships essential to educating Members of Congress about the power of franchising and why the business model must be protected.

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Franchise Businesspeople Meet with N.J. Lawmakers

On Friday, IFA and its hotel franchise members met with New Jersey Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin to discuss policy and the outlook for the 2026 legislative session.

Big picture: The meeting with Speaker Coughlin reaffirmed the growing role hotel franchises play in New Jersey’s economy as part of the state’s growing franchise sector, which is projected to generate $26.7 billion in output in 2025—a 5.2% increase from 2024.

Why it matters: Building on this momentum, hotel franchise members used this opportunity to advocate for pro-growth franchise policies. This is especially important as New Jersey prepares to host 2026 World Cup events, boosting tourism and hospitality demand.

Contact Your Lawmaker to Support the American Franchise Act

The brand new American Franchise Act to permanently protect the franchise business model continues to build momentum following the IFA Advocacy Summit, with the number of cosponsors up to 30 bipartisan lawmakers.

Take action: Contact your elected officials today to tell them to support HR 5267. Click here to send them a pre-drafted letter you can submit directly to their offices in just a few seconds.

Why it matters: Every voice counts. Because of the advocates that came to Washington in September, the number of cosponsors has more than doubled and the list of supporters continues to grow.