Governor Moore signed an executive order launching the Maryland Plain Language Initiative to enhance government communication.
Last week, Governor Wes Moore signed an executive order establishing the Maryland Plain Language Initiative. This initiative aims at improving the clarity and accessibility of government communication for all Maryland residents. The initiative sets standards to ensure that government-based communications, services, and supports are clear, understandable, and easy to use. Implementing plain language standards can also help county governments reduce administrative burdens by decreasing the number of inquiries and misunderstandings related to complex or unclear communications. This efficiency can lead to better resource allocation and improved service delivery, ultimately benefiting the entire community.
The executive order authorizes the Maryland Department of Information Technology's Maryland Digital Service, the Maryland Department of Disabilities, and the Governor's Office of Community Initiatives to collaborate in assessing the state's capacity, needs, and resources for implementing best practices in plain language standards. This collaboration will culminate in the creation of the Maryland Plain Language Plan. The plan will incorporate community-based content reviews and testing to ensure the standards are effective and beneficial to the public.
From the press release:
"Our administration's Plain Language Initiative will help ensure that every piece of writing that comes out of our administration – in print and online – is simple, accessible, and easy to read. This is what it looks like to leave no one behind." - Governor Wes Moore
By adopting these standards, county governments can ensure they are inclusive of all residents, including those with disabilities. This inclusivity fosters a sense of trust and cooperation between government entities and the public. The Maryland Plain Language Initiative is a step toward improving communication at all levels of government, with county governments standing to gain from the clarity and efficiency it promotes. The progress of the Maryland Plain Language Initiative will be monitored and reported to the Governor annually by December 31, ensuring that the state remains committed to clear and effective communication. Stay tuned to MACo for any updates on this task force.
Read the press release.
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