Plain Talk

Governor Gregoire’s “Plain Talk” Executive Order 05-03 requires all state agencies to use simple and clear language when communicating with citizens and businesses.

Why Plain Talk?

“Translating” long, difficult messages takes everyone a lot of time. It also can lead to errors, misunderstandings and frustration.  Plain language documents can be read and understood quickly. That means your customers will comply faster and more accurately with regulations.

What is Plain Talk?

Plain Talk messages are clear, concise and visually easy to read. They contain common words, rather than jargon, acronyms or unnecessary legal language. Check out the Plain Talk Guidelines.


1. Department of Licensing

Improving the Order of Cancellation of Driving Privileges form

2. Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals

Improving letters that describe mediation and hearing processes

3. Department of Social & Health Services

Improving client benefit eligibility letters to reduce duplications

4. Department of Licensing

Improving www.dol.wa.gov

5. Department of Social & Health Services

Improving a brochure communicating with child support customers in prison

6. Health Care Authority

Improving the Uniform Medical Plan's Benefits Book

7. Department of Labor & Industries

Creating an easy-to-use guide to applying for a Washington business license

8. Department of Labor & Industries

Being a leader in Plain Talk

Tips for using questions as headings:

  1. Make them the questions from the readers.
  2. Think conversation from the readers’ view.
  3. Keep the questions short.
  4. Consider starting with a key word that’s important to the readers.

Find your Washington state agency Plain Talk contact

Agency Contact List