Screening and approval program for retail sale of products containing certain substances; establish.

HB 873 would establish a state program requiring the Mississippi Department of Health to screen and approve the over-the-counter and retail sale of products containing substances with potential for recreational use or abuse, such as bath salts, kratom, and tianeptine. The State Health Officer would decide whether to allow such products to be sold based on available evidence, and manufacturers could appeal denials to the State Board of Health within 30 days. The bill ensures existing local ordinances restricting these products remain in effect and does not affect other state or federal regulations.