Title: Governor Hochul Calls for Spectrum to Issue Refunds Amid Cable Dispute with Disney
In a recent move, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has called on cable provider Spectrum to issue refunds to customers who have been unable to access popular channels such as ESPN and ACC Network during the ongoing dispute between Spectrum and Disney. The governor has directed the Department of Public Service to ensure that Spectrum delivers refunds to affected consumers in New York.
The dispute, which began on August 31st, has left nearly 15 million cable viewers across the nation, with over 1.5 million in New York alone, without access to essential channels including ESPN, ACC Network, FX, and the Disney Channel. Governor Hochul believes that Spectrum should be responsible for providing refunds to customers for any period during which they cannot access Disney-owned channels.
In addition to urging Spectrum to issue refunds, Governor Hochul has also called on Disney to continue providing its programming to Spectrum customers under the terms of the prior distribution agreement while negotiations between the two companies continue.
Currently, Spectrum has been providing $15 credits to customers who request refunds. However, this has caused confusion among customers and an increasing number of complaints. To address this, the New York State Public Service Commission has asked Charter, Spectrum’s parent company, to provide specific information regarding the refunds within 14 days. This includes details about the amount, timing, calculation, and notification process of the refunds.
The dispute between Spectrum and Disney has also raised concerns among sports fans, as it threatens to prevent some Spectrum customers from watching the highly anticipated Bills-Jets game on “Monday Night Football.” However, customers can still watch the game on non-Disney-owned ABC stations and through alternative streaming services.
Charter President and CEO Chris Winfrey has assured customers that the company will work with individuals who request refunds and ensure they are treated appropriately and fairly.
As the cable dispute continues, Governor Hochul remains committed to holding both Spectrum and Disney accountable for the disruption caused to customers, emphasizing the importance of refunds for the period during which customers cannot access Disney-owned channels. The Department of Public Service will continue to monitor the situation and ensure that Spectrum fulfills its obligations to consumers across New York.
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