In the context of a Christian Brothers Automotive franchise agreement assignment, what is the 'Effective Date' referring to?

According to Christian Brothers Automotive's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the 'Effective Date' refers to the date on which a specific agreement, such as a release agreement or a transaction fee agreement, comes into force. For instance, in the context of a general release agreement, the document is made and entered into 'as of the day of, 20 (the "Effective Date").' Similarly, a Transaction Fee Agreement is made and entered into 'as of (the "Effective Date").'

In the context of franchise laws, the FDD states that certain states require the Franchise Disclosure Document to be registered or filed with the state, or be exempt from registration. The document is effective and may be used in these states as of the Effective Date stated below.

Furthermore, the Termination and Release Agreement is executed and delivered by the parties as of the Effective Date. Therefore, the 'Effective Date' marks the commencement or operative date for various agreements and documents related to the Christian Brothers Automotive franchise, including general releases, transaction fee agreements, and the Franchise Disclosure Document itself.