Attorneys general from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut are urging cable company Optimum to automatically refund customers who paid for MSG Network channels but have been denied access since January.
The demand comes as the parent company of Optimum, Altice, and MSG Networks are in a contract dispute over the blackout. The missing MSG Networks channels provide exclusive coverage of popular sports teams like the Rangers, Islanders, Devils, and Sabres.
New York Attorney General Letitia James said customers are being forced to pay for channels they can’t watch, calling it an “unfair penalty.” She urged Optimum and MSG to reach a deal so New Yorkers can watch their home teams.
MSG Networks’ spokesperson, Dan Schoenberg, applauded the attorneys general’s demand but did not comment on any potential legal action. Optimum claimed that MSG is overcharging customers for access to its content and that the company should refund subscribers.
Optimum said it wants more flexibility in contract negotiations, allowing subscribers to choose or opt-out of certain channels without being forced to pay for them. The dispute highlights the challenges of modern media landscapes where consumers have more choice than ever before.
Source: https://gothamist.com/news