How is this even legal?

Verizon (11:33:54): I see you have questions about a router maintenance fee correct?
Bob (11:34:26): yeah, I'm not using your router, so I don't need your maintenance contract
Verizon (11:36:31): I do apologize but the fee is applied to anyone who has our internet services that does not have a Verizon router that has been approved. If you like I can go over some plans with you that have a router included.
Bob (11:39:47): so... you gave me a router, that router died. I bought a new router, installed and configured it myself, and I'm taking on the responsibility of making sure it is operational.... And you want to charge me a maintenance fee for what?
Verizon (11:41:13): I am sorry Bob but the fee is because you do not have a router from Verizon. I can go over some plans with you if you like that could give you a better value.
Bob (11:42:36): I haven't been using your router for several months, I probably owe you for those months too huh?
Bob (11:43:17): I understand charging a maintenance fee if you are maintaining something, in this case you are not
Bob (11:43:40): you should be able to remove the fee
Verizon (11:44:10): You do not have to pay for a router that you have not used. Was the router one that you rented or was it a Verizon provided router?
Bob (11:44:43): it was given to us when we signed up for the service
Verizon (11:47:48): Alright that router was a Verizon provided router that was free with the internet. I am unable to remove the fee because you do not currently have an approved router.
Bob (11:49:44): that should not matter. your internet service comes to my house. My router distributes it to my devices. your responsibility stops at the box where your fiber terminates.
Bob (11:50:11): my router is my own personal network
Bob (11:50:30): it's none of your concern
Bob (11:50:35): if it's broken, I will fix it
Bob (11:51:18): do you need to approve of the type of network cables I use to connect my computer to the router?
Bob (11:51:35): want to charge me more if I'm using off brand cables?
Verizon (11:51:40): I understand what you are saying Bob but I will not be able to remove the fee. I can provide you with the best options I do have available to me. I can go over some plans that have a router included in the internet bundle if you like.
Bob (11:52:56): I'm not interested in your router, I already bought one and it works just fine.
Bob (11:54:13): I just find this all ridiculous. if I don't want to use your router, I shouldn't have to to pay a fee to use hardware I purchased myself
Verizon (11:54:53): You by no means have to use one of or routers but the maintenance fee is applied if not.
Bob (11:55:19): but that makes no sense! What are you maintaining?
Bob (11:57:08): it'd be like if the Electric company said that we don't have to use their fridge, but if we don't they have to charge us a monthly maintenance fee
Bob (11:57:48): no, your power comes to my house, it's my responsibility after that
Bob (11:58:15): your internet connection comes to my house, I'm taking responsibility for it from there.
Verizon (11:58:20): I am sorry Bob but I cannot remove the fee I do not have that option available to me I can only provide you with an explanation of the fee and give you options on how to avoid the fee.
Bob (11:59:13): I understand providing the service of a router for customers who need it. There are plenty of people out there who don't know how to maintain a network, nor do they want to. I'm not one of those people
Bob (11:59:32): then please ask your manager to do it
Verizon (12:01:12): I have already confirmed it with my supervisor Bob we do not have the option to remove the fee.
Bob (12:02:04): then can you send me a router for free?
Bob (12:02:29): I'd be happy to keep it as a backup
Verizon (12:04:14): I cannot send you a router for free but we do have some internet plans that are a really good value that have our best router come with the upgrade. The router has a wifi range of over a football field and is the best we have to offer.