§14–228.

    (a)    Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, a person may not offer to sell, through advertisement or otherwise, or sell a franchise in the State unless the offer of the franchise has been registered under this subtitle.

    (b)    A person who willfully sells a franchise knowingly violating this section is guilty of a felony and, on conviction, is subject for each violation to a fine not exceeding $10,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or both.