Climate Impacts and Action in Washington. Together, We Can Lead. 

Bill Dewey harvests shellfish, an occupation that dates back millennia in the cool, coastal waters of Washington. But fast-moving changes threaten that livelihood and could radically alter the quality of life across much of the Evergreen State.

Currently, 35 state agencies and boards are involved in hundreds of plain language projects at any given time. They range from efforts to simplify form letters and forms, to web pages, brochures and instructions. The goal is to make it easier for citizens and businesses to do business with the state. But Governor Gregoire's Plain Talk initiative is also about making government more efficient and less expensive.

Here are Washington's guidelines for writing to customers in Plain Talk. As you will see, it's about more than just writing well.

As the world rapidly becomes more crowded, complex, and interconnected than we ever imagined, the plain language movement is taking off.

• Businesses know that they increase their market share when customers are not confused or frustrated.

• Public agencies know they save money and serve people better when citizens understand.

• Translators know they can do their job properly when language isn't bogged down by "legalese" or bureaucratic jargon.

Final Report

Most recent meeting/teleconference

The Clemency and Pardon Board receives petitions from individuals, organizations and the Department of Corrections for commutation of sentences and pardoning of offenders and, in some instances, for the restoration of the right to engage in political office.

Based on its review, the Board makes recommendations to the Governor. See statutory authority - RCW 9.94A.885