Governor Crist Launches Two Web Sites to Ensure Citizens’ Access to Information

~ Office of Open Government and Plain Language initiative enhance transparency in state government ~

TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist today announced the launch of two new Web sites that will help Floridians access information about state government and ensure that government’s actions are always transparent and accountable to taxpayers.

The Office of Open Government Web site contains information for state and local government officials, as well as the public, about Florida’s open government and public records laws. The Plain Language Initiative Web site is designed to help state government build stronger relationships with the public through clear communication.

“Government’s business is public service, and we can provide better service more efficiently if our customers understand what we are trying to do,” said Governor Crist. “The tools available on these new Web sites will help the people of Florida become true participants in the democratic process.”

Governor Crist created the Office of Open Government and the Plain Language Initiative in one of his first official acts as Governor when he issued Executive Order 07-01 on January 3, 2007.

Office of Open Government Web Site

The Open Government Web site features a video clip from Governor Crist’s inaugural speech, in which he announced the office’s establishment. Useful information regarding Florida’s unique open government and public record laws for consumers is available as well. In addition, the Web site provides links to other organizations that provide public record resources. Visitors to the site can also access the Attorney General’s Open Government Mediation Program and the First Amendment Foundation.

Training resources for state agencies include a link to the Florida Institute of Government Web site, which offers training in Florida’s Code of Ethics, Sunshine Law and Public Records Act. A link to the Government-in-the-Sunshine Manual is also available from the institute’s site.

The Office of Open Government site also lists state agency contacts charged with ensuring public record and Sunshine law compliance. Agency heads selected these contacts to serve as liaisons to the Office of Open Government. Consumers may e-mail the Office of Open Government directly from the Web site.

“This new Web site will expand opportunities to educate government officials and citizens about Florida’s open government and public records laws,” said Governor Crist. “Florida’s open government laws are among the strongest in the nation, and these Web sites will make government even more accessible to the people.”

Plain Language Initiative

The Plain Language Web site explains the purpose of the initiative and answers commonly asked questions with examples of correspondence before and after plain-language editing. Citizens may request a translation of a state government document either online or by fax. Individuals submitting requests should receive a response within seven days.

Governor Crist has directed executive state agencies to conduct thorough reviews of their communication strategies and customer service strategies, and then establish new standards and guidelines. As a result, the people of Florida will find future state publications and products easier to use. The Executive Order calls for agency reviews to be completed and procedures to be in place by April 2, 2007.

“The people of Florida are entitled to clear, plain language that enables understandable communication with state government,” said Governor Crist. “These activities are essential to providing high quality customer service.”

Governor Crist encourages state and local officials, as well as consumers, to visit the Web sites. Visit the Office of Open Government at: www.flgov.com/og_home, and the Plain Language Initiative Web site at http://www.flgov.com/pl_home.

This article originally published on February 26, 2007.