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What is Tree Law? Universal Studios blasted for trimming trees providing shade to striking actors in sweltering heat

Tree Law safeguards the environmental benefits, aesthetic value, and overall well-being provided by trees in city spaces

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In a bizarre turn of events, Universal Studios has found itself in the midst of controversy as the studio faced allegations of trimming trees near the picket line. The picket line has been organized by striking actors who are demanding better working conditions and fair treatment from the entertainment industry. The timing of the tree trimming incident has drawn widespread criticism, as it occurred just when the sweltering summer heat of Los Angeles has sent temperatures soaring.

The uproar began when comedian Chris Stephens took to Twitter to voice his frustration, accusing Universal Studios of deliberately pruning the trees that provided much-needed shade at the picket line. In a sarcastic tweet, Stephens wrote, "Quick shoutout to the good people at @UniversalPics for trimming the trees that gave our picket line shade right before a week with temperatures exceeding 90 degrees."

Los Angeles has been grappling with a heatwave, with temperatures averaging around 88 degrees Fahrenheit (31 degrees Celsius) and expected to reach a peak of 91 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) by the end of the week. The significance of shade for the striking actors, who have been tirelessly picketing against streamers and studios, cannot be understated. The incident has ignited discussions about the importance of environmental regulations, specifically tree laws, which govern the protection and preservation of trees in various contexts.

What is Tree Law?

Tree Law safeguards the environmental benefits, aesthetic value, and overall well-being provided by trees. "Tree law, which in the US is set at the state or local level, addresses questions such as how many trees someone can plant, what regulations there are on the cutting down of trees, whether a tree is actually on government-owned land and so on," according to Book Browse.

"Other issues that might be brought to court are tree roots encroaching on someone else's land, a fallen branch causing personal injury or damage to property such as a car, cutting down someone else's tree without permission, or the growth of a tree leading to the loss of a desirable view," read the website.

'Literally evil!'

Internet users argued that the decision to trim the trees near the picket line not only shows a lack of empathy for the striking actors but also highlights a disregard for the severe weather conditions they are enduring. One user tweeted, "Whoever "trimmed" those trees may have just killed a bunch of trees on city property, that weren't theirs to trim. Get ready for a fine and sanctions." Another claimed, "literally evil." A third tweeted, "UNIVERSAL BROKE THE TREE LAW." "They just killed a bunch of trees to be axxholes to people striking. Jeez," read a tweet. "Terrible pruning job too," asserted a user. Another chimed, "They knew they were breaking the law when they did it. They figured the worst case was a small fine that they were willing to pay. Nothing but time is going to bring those branches back."