Adjustment possible for ABQ DirecTV subscribers

Rate cost cuts could range from $5 to $10 per month

Subscribers who are frustrated with DirecTV’s ongoing blackout of a couple major networks may be eligible for a cost adjustment.

In the wake of a protracted contract dispute between AT&T, which owns DirecTV and AT&T U-Verse, and Nexstar Media Group, which owns Albuquerque’s CBS affiliate, KRQE, and Fox New Mexico, many subscribers in Central New Mexico and elsewhere have been unable to access the stations for more than a month.

However, there’s a small silver lining. Subscribers may be eligible for a rate adjustment reflecting the loss of content, until the two companies are able to reach an agreement. Any customer interested in pursuing an adjustment should call AT&T or visit a website set up by the provider.

The blackout dates back to July 4, when the stations went dark for thousands of local televisions after AT&T opted not to accept a contract extension offer by Nexstar. Since early July, subscribers have been unable to watch CBS and FOX shows, including local newscasts.

Scott Huscher, spokesman for AT&T, noted that DirecTV customers can still watch KRQE for free on the station’s website. Subscribers can also watch streaming content via the CBS and FOX websites and mobile applications.

Earlier this week, Nexstar and CBS reached a multi-year agreement that renews CBS network affiliations in 15 markets, including Albuquerque. However, spokeswoman Suzanne Trantow clarified that AT&T still needs to reach an agreement with Nexstar before the content can return.

Both AT&T representatives declined to comment on a potential price adjustment, writing that the company works with customers on a one-on-one basis to ensure satisfaction. Publicly available price adjustment estimates range from $5 to $10 per month.

Customers can call DirecTV at 1-800288-2020, or sign into www.tvpromise.att. com to learn more about a potential pricing adjustment.