You might have heard old bean-wives’ tales about salting the soaking water. The myth says salt makes beans tough. That’s mostly bunk.
In fact, adding a tablespoon of salt to your soaking water (especially with the quick-soak method) can help beans cook more evenly. It helps break down the skins.
Feel free to skip the salt if you want total control over flavor later. But don’t be afraid of it. Salt is a friend, not a villain.