Opinion ID: 2585381
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 11

Heading: Differences in Structure Between the State and Federal Constitutions

Text: The fifth Gunwall factor, structural differences between the federal and state constitutions also favors enhanced protections to Washington citizens by maintaining a literal interpretation of private use. As previously noted, there are marked differences between the two relevant provisions. But, because the United States Constitution is a grant of enumerated powers to the federal government and the Washington State Constitution serves to limit the otherwise plenary powers of the state government, the state constitution can be looked at as a source of great protections directly reserved in the people. Gunwall, 106 Wash.2d at 62, 720 P.2d 808. Thus, the structural differences allow Washington courts to forbid the taking of private property for private use even in cases where the Fifth Amendment may permit such takings.