And public transit agencies DO NOT MAKE CHANGE. Meaning, if the fare is $1, and all you have is a $5 bill, well, this is part of the "terms of use" or agreement when using most public transit agencies. And no, I am unaware of any public transit agency in this country (excluding some commuter railroads that may have very narrow refund policy) who will refund, offer credit, or any discounts for not getting you to your destination on time or inferior experience such as trouble makers and crime on such transit services.
Yeah, it is in the contract for all these MVPD's for them to pretty much do what they want. I would suggest either taking your money to another MVPD or cut the cord or contact your Federal representatives in Congress about changing the laws that don't seem fair or proper.