Warning: State Attorney General Bob Ferguson filed another attention-getting lawsuit to please his extreme liberal base! Oh you’re not surprised? This time Ferguson is suing Motel 6, saying the motel chain handed over guest information to federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in violation of state law. (MyNorthwest)

Columnist Danny Westneat thinks Seattle should pay drivers to use the new Highway 99 tunnel. His “negative toll” would aim to prevent the impending “gridlockapocalypse” that will occur when the tunnel, which will replace the Alaskan Way Viaduct, opens and drivers try to avoid its tolls. (The Seattle Times)

The first day of the new Yakima City Council term featured some old-fashioned hometown boosterism. Members were sworn in for their term at Tuesday’s meeting and were handed a check for more than $9.6 million. Yakima residents and fundraisers put together the gift to help construct the Yakima Central Plaza project. (Yakima Herald)

The Department of Transportation, worried about a possible landslide onto I-82, spent yesterday placing large shipping containers filled with concrete barriers at Rattlesnake Ridge. Officials set up the containers over concerns of falling rocks from the ridge, where massive cracks have opened. (Yakima Herald)

Richland City Councilman Phil Lemley said he is weighing a possible run to represent the 8th Legislative District in the state House. Early signs point to Lemley likely running against Brad Klippert (R-Kennewick). (Tri-City Herald) 

Wapato City Clerk/Treasurer Sue Pearson was placed on paid administrative leave by newly elected mayor Juan Orozco. The City Council has already appointed a temporary replacement to fill the role, pending an investigation. (Yakima Herald)

Newly elected Kennewick Councilman Steve Lee hadn’t even been in office a full day when the council selected him as mayor pro tem. Lee, owner of a marijuana store, made headlines during last fall’s campaign when he self-funded his campaign to the tune of about $85,000. (Tri-City Herald)

Do you like The Morning Briefing? Forward this to a friend! It helps us grow our community and serve you better.

If you feel we missed something that should be covered, email us at [email protected].

If you don’t want to receive this email each morning, click here to opt-out of The Morning Briefing.