Latest Update: Friday, January, 16th 2009

To enhance citizen access to Government information and services by establishing plain language as the standard style for Government documents issued to the public, and for other purposes. 4/14/2008--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Plain Language in Government Communications Act of 2008 - (Sec. 4) Requires each executive agency, within one year, to: (1) use plain language in any covered document issued or substantially revised after the date of the enactment of this Act; and (2) use the English language in covered documents when appropriate. Authorizes agencies to: (1) use plain language in any revision of a covered document issued on or before such date; and (2) follow the guidance of the Plain English Handbook published by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Federal Plain Language Guidelines, or their own plain language guidance as long as it is consistent with such Handbook, Guidelines, and the Comptroller General's [...]

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Latest Actions
  • 08/01/2008 - Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 929.
  • 04/15/2008 - Received in the Senate.
  • 04/14/2008 - Mr. Braley (IA) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
  • 04/14/2008 - Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H2237-2239)
  • 04/14/2008 - DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3548.

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