It is hereby declared to be the public policy of the state of Louisiana to protect and preserve prehistoric and historic properties, artifacts, treasure troves, and objects of antiquity which have historical value or which are of interest to the public, including but not limited to abandoned prehistoric or historic settlements, sites, properties, sunken or abandoned ships, or other objects, or any part thereof relating to the history, government, and culture of the state.

Acts 1989, No. 291, §1.