PROPOSED FED PLAIN LANGUAGE RULES COULD HELP ELECTIONS, TOO

An important part of ballot usability relates to the use of language: on the ballot, in the polling materials and instructions for both voters and precinct workers. A bill before US Congress can have an impact: The Plain Language Bills, S2291 and HR 3548, require that US government communications - including "letter, publication, form, notice, or instruction" -- likely including balloting materials -- be presented in clear, easy-to-understand language.

The Usability Professionals' Association has submitted a letter endorsing this initiative. You can let your US Congress member and Senator know that you support the Plain Language bill as well. Visit http://www.senate.gov and http://www.congress.org.

The UPA Letter of Support: http://www.usabilityprofessionals.org/about_upa/
for_the_press/press_releases/press.080128.html

More information about Plain Language and government: http://www.usabilityprofessionals.org/civiclife/access/
plain_language.html
http://www.plainlanguage.gov