Welcome to the Lacey Act Web Governance System (LAWGS)

The Lacey Act Web Governance System (LAWGS) allows you to quickly create and submit Plant and Plant Product Declaration Forms for the purpose of importing commodities.

LAWGS provides core functionality for importers to create, print and submit Plant and Plant Product Declaration Forms (PPQ Form 505) and Supplemental forms, (PPQ Form 505b), and for USDA users to view, print and report on the submitted Plant and Plant Product Declaration Forms.

This Help is designed both as a course in using LAWGS and as an ongoing reference while you are working with the application.  To view the Help file, click the Need Help link at the top right of each page.

NOTE: The purpose of the Lacey Act is to combat trafficking in "illegal" wildlife, fish, and plants.  The Lacey Act was amended in 2008.  Under the Act now, among other things, it is unlawful to 1) import, export, transport, sell, receive, acquire, or purchase in interstate or foreign commerce any plant, with some limited exceptions, in violation of the laws of the United States, a State, Indian tribe, or any foreign law; 2) import certain plants and plant products without an import declaration; or 3) make or submit any false record, account, or label for, or any false identification of, any plant covered by the Act. APHIS oversees the collection and enforcement of Lacey Act declarations as part of an effort to combat illegal timber imports and protect global natural resources.

Click Lacey Act for more information.

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