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

HB 379 would create a program for the Mississippi State Department of Health to screen and approve the 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 based on available evidence, and manufacturers could appeal denials to the State Board of Health within 30 days. The bill requires the department to develop implementing rules and ensures local governments' existing or new restrictions on these products remain in effect. This legislation would take effect on July 1, 2026, if passed.