Unquestionably Confused writes:
I don't see that much of a kickback threat. Unless there is some
waste or other object underneath the piece being cut off, the force
being applied by the saw blade is pushing the workpiece down and
rearward into the auxiliary fence on the miter gauge.

Don't underestimate the cheapness of cheap tools, though. Saw binds,
pushes part back, twists "backing board", rips out small wood screws,
overwhelms bolt on miter gauge, twists it out of the slot, throws the
whole ensemble right at the operator.

Always plan for the worst.