MS SB2173

Establishes an Office of Workplace Safety and Health within the Mississippi Department of Health under the State Board of Health to implement occupational health and safety programs and regulations.

Grants the Office authority to develop safety standards, provide consultation and training to employers and employees, collect work-related disability statistics, and coordinate with federal OSHA without administering or enforcing federal law.

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

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

Takes effect July 1, 2024.