I’m forced to use AT&T for digital cable because they have a monopoly on the San Francisco Bay Area. They’re the only franchise available.

When I open up my AT&T bill, it’s more than the advertised fee. This is because in addition to the monthly service, I also pay a “franchise tax.”

So let me get this straight: I can only use one franchise, and then I pay an additional fee for the privilege.

I think I’d feel better if they just called it a “neener, neener, neener” tax.