Local channel-only plan?

[cflannagan]

Does Verizon offer local channel-only plans? I might be wrong but doesn't federal government require cable companies to offer local-channels-only plans? I understan that I might still need to pay for renting STBs, which is fine with me. 

[walt178]

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@cflannagan wrote:

Does Verizon offer local channel-only plans? I might be wrong but doesn't federal government require cable companies to offer local-channels-only plans? I understan that I might still need to pay for renting STBs, which is fine with me. 

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Cable companies are required to set aside a portion of their channels for local stations. But not necessarily required to carry them.

Local broadcasters have two options:

1. Retransmission consent:  the cable operator may carry the local channel, but the local channel will typically require compensation for that right.
2. Must carry:  the cable operator must carry the local channel, but the local station is prohibited from charging the cable company.
3. Each local broadcaster must elect which they will use on a three year basis.

It seems that most local stations choose the Retransmission Consent.  That's why the negotiations over price take place.

To my knowledge Verizon does not have a local only plan. Though I have not looked for one.  If I only wanted local, an antenna would be adequate in my area.

[Hubrisnxs]

I am pretty confident you can get local only.  I haven't met a tv provider that doesn't have it.  They are usually given only if you ask for them

[andy9798]

Try going to Services, Fios TV, Plans. Under Compare TV Plans click on channel line up. Click on New Comparison in the new window. This should show you all the TV plans available in your area.

This is the link.

http://www22.verizon.com/home/fiostv/#plans

[22Becca22]

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@cflannagan wrote:

Does Verizon offer local channel-only plans? I might be wrong but doesn't federal government require cable companies to offer local-channels-only plans? I understan that I might still need to pay for renting STBs, which is fine with me. 

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Hello,

Yes, there is a FiOS TV Local plan that provides access to 15 local TV channels.

And as Hubrisnxs had stated, this is only given when you ask for it.

If ordering online, here is a link to see details/pricing for all FiOS TV plans, Internet speeds and Telephone plans available at your location via 'Build Your Own Bundle':

https://www22.verizon.com/FORYOURHOME/GOFLOW/OrderNew/BuildBundle.aspx

+ See More Plans

[yankees4]

I live outside Buffalo NY and have Verizon FIOS, they do have a local only plan but you may have to request cancellation before they offer it. If you have a TV that'll accept screw the cable connection directly into the TV and get all the local HD channels. If you have an older TV you may need the cable box to connect to your TV, if you do use the cable box you will get some additional channels in addition to the locals.If you want DVR it is an additional $12.00 a month. I have a package which has internet 75 Mpps, landline telephone and the local TV for $90.00 a month. The internet alone would cost $60.00 if not bundled, thus I took their local TV. You could get local TV with your own antenna if your reception is good. To get good reception you probably would need to mount outside. My reception was spotty thus I used Verizon for the local channels. By the way the cost of the cable box rental is $6.00 a month, I hope this helps.

[kh-gary]

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