Should You Have To Change To A Digital Converter Box For Your TV?

As of next week, Spectrum customers in the North Adams and Williamstown area will no longer be able to watch TV without a digital conversion box.

The Berkshire Eagle reports while the company says the transition to an all-digital signal will provide customers with better service, state and local officials are questioning its legality.

State Rep. John Barrett III called it a travesty. Barrett and North Adams Mayor Thomas Bernard met with Spectrum representatives on Monday, but Barrett said central issues were left unresolved. Barrett further plans to meet with representatives from the state Department of Telecommunications and Cable next week and will take the fight to the Attorney General's Office next. He also plans to contact the Federal Communications Commission.

According to Spectrum, Most customers will be eligible to receive at least one free box for a limited period of time, depending on their cable package.

Customers will be charged $6.99 per month per box, or $11.75 per month if they remain on a legacy Time Warner Cable package. Charter Communications, the parent company of Spectrum, purchased the company last year.