How does Best Western amend the 'Summary' section of Item 17(d) regarding termination by the member?

According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the 'Summary' section of Item 17(h), entitled "Cause" defined – non-curable defaults, is amended for franchises in Virginia. This amendment acknowledges the restrictions outlined in Section 13.1-564 of the Virginia Retail Franchising Act.

Specifically, the amendment adds a statement clarifying that it is unlawful for Best Western to cancel a franchise without reasonable cause, as defined by the Virginia Retail Franchising Act or Virginia laws. It further states that if any grounds for default or termination in the membership agreement do not constitute "reasonable cause" under Virginia law, that particular provision may not be enforceable.

In practical terms, this means that Best Western franchisees in Virginia have additional protection against termination without reasonable cause. The amendment ensures that the franchise agreement aligns with Virginia law, which may provide a more favorable interpretation of what constitutes justifiable grounds for termination. This could be a significant benefit for franchisees in Virginia, as it limits Best Western's ability to terminate the agreement based on potentially ambiguous or unfair reasons.