In a pivotal joint meeting of the Senate and Assembly Committee on Health and Human Services, Nevada lawmakers discussed significant reforms aimed at enhancing the state's health care system. The meeting, held on May 26, 2025, focused on the proposed establishment of the Nevada Health Authority, a new agency designed to streamline health care services and improve health outcomes for Nevadans.

Director Richard Whitley emphasized the complexity of the current health care system, which serves over a million residents through programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and WIC. He noted that the pandemic highlighted the need for a more cohesive approach to health care delivery, suggesting that the existing split between oversight and service delivery has hindered effective management. Whitley advocated for a restructuring that would allow for better integration of health care purchasing and oversight, ultimately aiming to create a more efficient safety net for vulnerable populations.

Stacy Weeks, representing Nevada Medicaid, detailed the proposed changes outlined in Bill 494, which would transition the Department of Health and Human Services into the Department of Human Services and create the Nevada Health Authority. This new agency would centralize the regulation and purchasing of health care services, thereby leveraging the state's buying power to negotiate better coverage options for residents. The authority is expected to oversee various health programs, including Medicaid and the public employee benefits program, impacting approximately one in three Nevadans.

The bill also includes provisions for establishing a strategic plan to improve access to affordable care and control costs, with regular updates required for the legislature and governor. Additionally, the authority will introduce a new office dedicated to rooting out fraud and ensuring compliance within the Medicaid system, enhancing accountability and oversight.

Lawmakers expressed support for the initiative, recognizing its potential to improve health care delivery in Nevada. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further refine the bill and address any outstanding concerns, signaling a significant step toward a more integrated and effective health care system in the state. As the legislative process continues, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the implementation of these reforms and their impact on the health and well-being of Nevadans.