Because it’s worth repeating…The state Supreme Court ruled yesterday that public charter schools are constitutional, and so is the way the state funds them. “The Washington Supreme Court has given 3,400 students and their families from across our state new hope by affirming that charter public schools will continue to be a valuable part of our public education system,” said the Washington State Charter Schools Association. Justice Mary Yu in her lead opinion summarized the decision by writing that charter schools are not unconstitutional simply because they do not operate identically to common schools. (The News Tribune)

The state Department of Social and Health Services is working to block local police from obtaining information to help explain the failures of Western State Hospital to maintain safety for patients and staff. The agency is going to court today to try and block the Lakewood police from accessing the information. The Seattle Times editorial board argues this is against the public interest, writing, “Having the full details of police incidents is critical for gauging the effectiveness of local police services at Western State.” (Seattle Times)

Builders in Olympia say the city’s proposed impact fee would only lead to more people being priced out of owning a home. The city recommended phasing in increases to park impact fees of 26-34 percent over the next two years. The fees are intended to help offset the impact of new residents on public infrastructure and facilities. (The Olympian)

Kent business leaders told the city council it should find an alternative way to balance the budget, other than raising the business and occupation tax. “It puts us in a position of looking at moving our distribution centers out of Kent,” said Bryce White of Columbia Distributing, which delivers beer, soda and other beverages to retailers. Some leaders predict businesses will flee to nearby cities if the rate hikes continue. (Kent Reporter)

Some reports suggest Spokane County voters could be coming out to cast their ballot in record numbers. The 46,333 ballots received by Wednesday evening represent more than 15 percent of those mailed to county voters last week. “This would suggest a wave election,” said Cornell Clayton, director of the Thomas S. Foley Institute at Washington State University. (Spokesman Review)

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.