To the editor:

This is the dumbest bill ever. And of course, only in Rhode Island would such a bill receive overwhelming support by its senators.

Now we’re taking on nature and acts of God by requiring property owners in city and suburban lots to take control over wind, weather and natural impetus to forcibly cause foliage to fall straight down onto their own property. Otherwise, face a $500 fine should that foliage fall elsewhere.

How will we identify whose leaves belong to whom? Best not to own a unique tree such as the ginkgo adorning my former residence.

What of trees that rule over several small lots? Natural selection determines their reach, not our plats. Once precedent is set for abutting neighbor suits, it’s not a far reach for the next guy to get in line.

So, we either cage our lots, wait with leaf blowers to direct leaves and needles as they fall (note: needles are coniferous leaves, Sen. Ciccone), or cut everything down.

Although the latter ensures compliance with this ludicrous bill, it is all but green. So much for capturing CO2 and oxygen creation. So much for avian and other habitat. Just a few unintended consequences of this legislative genius. We’re going to denude city and suburban lots, or face never ending law suits and fines.

Plastic fences are nice…

James Demick

Barrington