MS SB2291

Establishes an Office of Workplace Safety and Health within the Mississippi Department of Health to implement occupational health and safety programs and standards.

Grants the Office authority to develop safety information and consultation services, conduct on-site inspections, collect work-related disability statistics, and promulgate occupational safety rules and standards.

Transfers child labor inspection and enforcement duties from county health officers to the Office of Workplace Safety and Health, requiring unannounced inspections of mills, factories, and manufacturing establishments at least twice annually.

Increases penalties for employers who fail to comply with child labor law inspections or orders, raising fines from $10-$100 to $100-$1,000.

Takes effect July 1, 2023.