GOVERNOR CRIST APPLAUDS DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT’S PLAIN LANGUAGE WORKSHOP

March 22, 2007

Contact:

ERIN ISAAC
(850) 488-5394

TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist today applauded the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) for their efforts to improve the agency’s communications as part of the Plain Language Initiative. Retired and former FDLE staff members gathered today to review FDLE’s key communications and offer input on how the department can better provide clear and concise information to its customers.

During the workshop, the volunteers reviewed FDLE’s most frequently distributed forms and letters and identified items that may not be easily understood by customers. The workshop is only one part of the department’s thorough review of plain-language use in its communications with the public, businesses and other government agencies.

Retired and former FDLE staff members meet regularly, on a volunteer basis, to stay informed on current issues and to assist the department with special projects and initiatives. Members were chosen to serve on the Plain Language workgroup due to their existing familiarity with FDLE policies and procedures.

“I’m pleased to see FDLE bring together individuals who have a unique perspective and expertise to help put plain language into practice so that we can better serve the people of Florida,” said Governor Charlie Crist. “Using plain language shouldn’t be complicated, and it makes a big difference in making government more accessible to citizens.”

Governor Crist established the Plain Language Initiative in his first executive order on January 3, 2007, to ensure the use of clear, common language in government documents and logical presentation of information. Plain language standards call for short sentences written in active voice, documents free from acronyms and technical jargon, and a visually clear layout.

“FDLE’s customers range from everyday citizens such as parents, families, and retirees, to criminal justice practitioners such as law enforcement officers, court clerks, and prosecutors,” said FDLE Commissioner Gerald Bailey. “Whether we are helping someone who is applying to be a law enforcement officer, or working with a citizen to seal or expunge a criminal history record, we need to provide information in a manner that is easily understood by the person receiving it. That’s what customer service is about.”

FDLE’s Plain Language workgroup is charged with ensuring that FDLE uses plain language in its communications with customers. The Department has established a plain language Web site containing resources and information, is providing specialized training to members, and is actively reviewing and updating forms, letters and other publications to ensure plain language is utilized in agency communications.