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Plain Language
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Article Content  |
| Plain Language Standard |
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Oregon law requires all state agencies to prepare public communications in language that is as clear and simple as possible (ORS 183.750). This includes publications, forms and instructions, licenses, agency notices, and administrative rules. HB 2702 specifies an additional standard for written documents. A document meets the plain language standard if it, whenever possible:
- Uses everyday words that convey meanings clearly and directly
- Uses the present tense and the active voice
- Uses short, simple sentences
- Defines only those words that cannot be properly explained or qualified in the text
- Uses type of a readable size
- Uses layout and spacing that separate the paragraphs and sections of the document from each other
- Second Report to the Legislative Assembly on Implementation of House Bill 2702, Plain Language Standard, (1/1/09)
Report Summary
Implementation Plans and Examples
Examples by Category
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| Toolbox |
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Style Guides
Writing Tips and Tools
Readability tools
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| Resources |
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Oregon State Library
Resources and services are available to all State of Oregon employees. You can register online using your official State of Oregon email address - Register
Databases
- Books 24x7 – business communications, writing
- Merriam Webster’s International Dictionary – dictionaries and thesauri
Catalog Search the Oregon State Library catalog for books, print, video, federal and state documents, and other material
Topics
Assistance: 503-378-8800 library.help@state.or.us
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| Other Plain Language Initiatives |
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