The Coalition of Franchisee Associations (CFA) today announced its strong support for the passage of Virginia House Bill 69 and Senate Bill 240, landmark legislation that prohibits non-compete clauses in franchise agreements across the Commonwealth of Virginia. The bills were signed into law by Governor Abigail Spanberger and will take effect on July 1, 2026.

This legislation marks a significant advancement in protecting the rights and economic mobility of franchisees. By eliminating non-compete restrictions, Virginia is ensuring that franchise owners have greater freedom to pursue business opportunities and continue contributing to their communities without unnecessary contractual barriers.

The CFA played a central role in supporting this effort, working alongside policymakers, franchisees, and stakeholders to elevate awareness around the impact of non-compete clauses on independent business owners. The Coalition’s advocacy helped drive meaningful reform and bring balance to franchise relationships in the state.

The CFA also extends its sincere appreciation to State Senator Chris Head and State Delegate Dan Helmer for their leadership and commitment in advancing this legislation. Their efforts were instrumental in moving these bills forward and securing meaningful protection for franchisees across Virginia. The CFA further recognizes the contributions of the American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD) for its partnership and ongoing advocacy in support of franchisee rights, which helped reinforce the importance of this legislative effort.

“This is a meaningful and hard-fought victory for franchisees,” said Bill Mathis, Chairman of the Coalition of Franchisee Associations. “We commend Virginia lawmakers, Senator Head, Delegate Helmer, and Governor Spanberger for recognizing the need to modernize franchise law. The CFA was proud to support House Bill 69 and Senate Bill 240, and we believe this sets an important precedent for other states to follow.”

The CFA remains committed to advancing policies that protect franchisees, strengthen local economies, and promote fair franchising practices nationwide. The passage of this legislation in Virginia reflects growing momentum toward a more equitable franchise business model.

About the Coalition of Franchisee Associations (CFA) The Coalition of Franchisee Associations is a national organization representing franchisee groups across multiple brands and industries to include over 100,000 locations. The CFA advocates for fair franchising practices, supports independent franchise owners, and works to ensure a balanced and

Media Contact:

Dave Glodowski – Executive Director
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KENNESAW, GA — The Coalition of Franchisee Associations (CFA), the nation’s largest franchisee-only trade organization, has announced a renewed strategic focus on expanding membership and strengthening franchisee advocacy under newly appointed Executive Director Dave Glodowski, according to a recent Franchise Times interview.

Glodowski, who previously served in leadership roles within the CFA and brings decades of franchisee association experience, returns to the organization with a clear mission: to grow the coalition’s reach, deepen engagement across franchise systems and amplify the collective voice of franchise owners nationwide.

“As franchisees continue to navigate evolving operational and economic pressures, our goal is to ensure they have a stronger, more unified voice at the table,” Glodowski said in the interview. “When franchisees come together, they gain the strength, credibility and influence needed to drive meaningful change across the industry.”

The CFA currently represents franchisee associations across major national brands, including McDonald’s, Dunkin’, Domino’s, 7-Eleven and Planet Fitness. With 15 member associations and growing, the organization serves as a central hub for advocacy, education and collaboration among franchise owners.

Glodowski emphasized that membership growth is critical to expanding the CFA’s impact, particularly as franchisees face ongoing challenges related to operational control, vendor relationships and regulatory uncertainty. Strengthening participation across local franchisee associations, he noted, will be key to advancing the CFA’s mission of protecting and empowering franchise owners.

Industry leaders say the CFA continues to play an increasingly important role in shaping dialogue within franchising, particularly as franchisee associations work collectively to address shared concerns and promote transparency and fairness within franchise systems.

The Coalition of Franchisee Associations plans to build on this momentum by enhancing member value, expanding advocacy efforts and fostering stronger collaboration between franchisee groups across the country.

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