Still Using Paper Forms? Submit Your Lacey Act Declarations Electronically Through LAWGS

Still Using Paper Forms? Submit Your Lacey Act Declarations Electronically Through LAWGS

To streamline the declaration process for importers who typically file paper declarations, APHIS’ Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) released a new website called the Lacey Act Web Governance System (LAWGS, pronounced “logs”).  This site makes filing Lacey Act Declarations (PPQ Form 505) easier and faster.  It also saves time and reduces errors by allowing importers to:

·         Save frequently used declaration data in templates for future submissions;

·         Select standard information from drop-down menus; and,

·         Upload merchandise information in XML format to auto-populate the form.

 

LAWGS does not replace the Automated Broker Interface (ABI) currently used by a number of importers to file electronic Lacey Act declarations. Importers who currently submit electronic declarations to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection through ABI or a customs broker should continue to do so. LAWGS is an option for importers who otherwise would file paper declarations.

 

LAWGS Webinars

 

On September 10 and 17, 2014, PPQ will host two webinars to introduce importers to the LAWGS site. Interested stakeholders are encouraged to sign up for one of these webinars by sending an email request to lacey.act.declaration@aphis.usda.gov. In the body of the email, please include:

 

•                    The name of each participant,

•                    The name of the organization you represent, and

•                    Your organization’s business (i.e., law group, retailer, manufacturer, government, etc.).

 

Please also indicate if you or your organization would be interested in Lacey Act instruction beyond LAWGS.

 

 

***

The 2008 Amendment of the Lacey Act makes unlawful the trade of illegally harvested plants, including timber, in an effort to protect invaluable forests and ecosystems around the world. Under the Lacey Act, APHIS PPQ:

·         Administers the requirements that mandate that importers declare the species, country of harvest and other relevant information about a plant or plant product's origin; and

·         Enforces  the prohibition of illegal trade in   plant species protected under international or domestic law; and,

·         Cooperates with other Federal partners in their efforts to combat illegal logging

 

For additional information about the Lacey Act Program, please visit http://www.aphis.usda.gov/planthealth/laceyact