Louisiana Association of Waterway
Operators and Shipyards

WELCOME to the Louisiana Association of Waterway Operators and Shipyards (LAWS) website.

The Louisiana Association of Waterway Operators and Shipyards, or LAWS, is your connection to the Brownwater Inland Marine Barge and Towing Industry, the Shipyards, Engine Companies, and other Businesses providing service to the Marine industry in Louisiana.

The Louisiana Association of Waterway Operators and Shipyards serves not only the maritime industry in Louisiana, but the interests of the entire state and its economy. LAWS is also your Louisiana connection to the Inland Waterway System that serves the transportation system of our country.

LAWS has been in existence since 1985, when it was recognized that the industry needed a lobbying arm to represent us with matters before the State Legislature, particularly in Tax issues.

LAWS focuses primarily on this area, but is ready to assist both government and industry to provide information, and assist in the development of good legislation that will be beneficial to the state and the maritime industry and related economy.

The Mission of LAWS is to promote the business interest of the tug, barge, and shipyard industries in Louisiana, and improve the marine transportation industry in the state.