Updated on September 29, 2018, at 12:33 p.m.
New federal legislation has been introduced this week that would bring Massachusetts television stations back to the Berkshires.
U.S. Senator Ed Markey said the bill would force Charter Spectrum to negotiate a deal to provide Berkshire customers access to WWLP in Springfield and WCVB from Boston.
In Pittsfield on Friday, Markey said there's a lot at stake.
"In the Bershires, we want to watch Red Sox homeruns at Fenway, not Yankee strikeouts in the Bronx," Markey said to laughter. "But restoring these channels isn't just about sports and entertainment. This is a fundamental question of civic engagement."
The legislation would still keep Albany stations, so residents have access to weather, emergency information and New York sports.
Pittsfield Mayor Linda Tyer said Berkshire residents do want that New York connection.
But, she added, "We deserve to know what's happening in our state capital, and what's happening in cities just like Pittsfield across this Commonwealth."
The legislation is co-sponsored by Senator Elizabeth Warren and, in the House, by Congressman Richie Neal.
In a statement, Charter Spectrum spokesman Andrew Russell said the company is aware that many of its customers want "Massachusetts-focused programming."
"And we remain open-minded about a solution that doesn’t drive up costs or result in a negative viewing experience," Russell said.
