In recent weeks, speculation has grown over whether Nevada will convene a special legislative session.
Rumors swirl around potential cuts to Medicaid, the need for budget adjustments, and the possibility of advancing the Governor’s public safety agenda.
Some Democrats have gone so far as to claim that over 114,000 Nevadans will lose their Medicaid coverage if we don’t act immediately.
Let’s clear up the misinformation and talk about what a special session is – and what it isn’t.
What Is a Special Session – and Who Calls It?
Under Nevada’s Constitution, a special session may be called only in two ways: by the Governor, or by a two-thirds majority of both legislative houses.
These sessions are not wide open. They must be strictly limited to the specific subjects outlined in the Governor’s call.
That means no legislative freelancing or side issues – only the declared agenda is allowed.
Special sessions are also costly.
A single day can run Nevada taxpayers between $50,000 and $100,000. A multi-day session can easily exceed half a million dollars.
That’s not pocket change, and we must be sure a special session is absolutely necessary before convening one.
Medicaid Misinformation – Don’t Fall for It
Democrats, including Senator Catherine Cortez Masto, have recently warned that up to 114,000 Nevadans could lose Medicaid coverage due to changes by the Trump administration.
That claim is deeply misleading and designed to stir fear rather than convey facts.
Here’s the truth: the Trump administration has not proposed cutting coverage for legitimate recipients.
In fact, federal policy has focused squarely on rooting out fraud, waste, and abuse – not slashing services.
Much of the “coverage loss” being discussed stems from the end of temporary pandemic-era policies that were always intended to be lifted once the public health emergency ended.
In reality, what’s actually happening is that states – Nevada icluded – are being asked to verify eligibility, remove duplicate or fraudulent enrollees, and ensure taxpayer dollars go to those who legitimately qualify.
That’s simply good governance. It’s not a “cut” – it’s a clean-up.
What a Real Special Session Might Address
If a special session is called, here’s what it could possibly focus on:
* Crime and Public Safety:
Governor Lombardo’s crime and safety agenda includes stronger penalties for violent offenses and fentanyl trafficking, and restoring support for law enforcement.
These policies stalled in the last session but remain priorities
* Targeted Budget Adjustments:
While Nevada’s economy is performing well overall, inflation and population growth are straining key parts of our budget – particularly education and infrastructure.
A special session may be necessary to address specific shortfalls or realign funding priorities.
* Medicaid Oversight (Not Cuts):
Again, if Medicaid is addressed at all, it would focus on tightening oversight, not removing coverage from eligible Nevadans.
The goal is to safeguard the program – not sabotage it.
Special sessions are serious undertakings – not political theater. They’re costly, focused, and only justified when absolutely necessary.
And while the legislature is ready to serve if called back into session, Nevadans deserve honesty, not fearmongering, about our state’s fiscal and policy future.
Let’s hold ourselves to the truth – not talking points.
