Existing law requires each department, commission, office, or other administrative agency of state government to write each document, as defined, that it produces in plain, straightforward language, avoiding technical terms as much as possible, and using a coherent and easily readable style.

This bill would specify that the plain, straightforward language requirement applies to both digital and printed documents, and would define “plain language” for purposes of that provision. The bill would require each state agency, as described above, to create, adopt, and post on its internet website a plain language policy that identifies how the state agency will incorporate or strengthen plain language writing and design principles and practices. The bill would require the head of each state agency to, among other things, designate one or more senior officials within the state agency to oversee state agency implementation of these provisions.