All states have laws against boating under the influence (BUI), which make it a crime to operate a boat or watercraft on a public waterway while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
In Louisiana, operating a boat or other watercraft while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal, similar to driving a vehicle while impaired. The state's BUI (Boating Under the Influence) laws are outlined in the Louisiana Revised Statutes, specifically under RS 14:98.1. A person is considered to be under the influence if they have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, which is the same threshold for driving a motor vehicle. Penalties for BUI can include fines, jail time, and boating license suspension. Additionally, Louisiana law requires that any person arrested for BUI submit to chemical tests to determine the alcoholic content of their blood if requested by a law enforcement officer. Refusal to submit to such testing may result in increased penalties and suspension of boating privileges.