APD > Governor's Plain Language and Open Government Initiatives
On January 3, 2007, Florida Governor Charlie Crist issued an Executive Order calling for adoption and implementation of a Code of Ethics, a Code of Personal Responsibility, a Plain Language Initiative, an Office of Open Government and a top-to-bottom review of how state employees can better serve the people.
Open Government
In support of Florida Governor Charlie Crist's initiatives, the Agency for Persons with Disabilities renews its commitment to open government and providing information to our customers in the least restrictive way possible. The agency will continually review current and newly developed documents to ensure that they communicate effectively. The agency will work to provide excellent customer service and hope that may be achieved by being a transparent agency serving Floridians with developmental disabilities.
2007-08 Budget Information
Communicate in Plain Language
- The Governor's "Plain Language Initiative" calls for a "two-way conversation with the people of Florida."
- Written communication to the public must be clear, concise, and free of needless words.
- This includes presentations on agency websites, letters, notices, applications, reports, pamphlets and any other communication meant for public consumption.
The Executive Order States:
"While each agency's plan must take into account the unique programs and requirements of that agency and its customers, all Plain Language plans must provide for documents that include:
- Clear language that is commonly used by the intended audience;
- Only the information needed by the recipient, presented in a logical sequence;
- Short sentences written in the active voice that make it clear who is responsible for what; and
- Layout and design that help the reader understand the meaning on the first try (including adequate white space, bulleted lists, and helpful headings)."
How Are We Doing?
Please give us your feedback on the strengths and opportunities for improving the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities plain language efforts.
Thank you.
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