Nevada is set to launch a new public option health insurance program for 2026, offering coverage at lower costs compared to current plans on the Silver State Health Insurance Exchange. This development follows the federal government’s approval of Nevada’s waiver to provide the public option, which will feature premiums at least 15% lower than those offered on the state exchange over the next five years.
Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro, who sponsored the 2021 legislation enabling the state to pursue the waiver, emphasized that the new public option will increase affordability, boost federal healthcare investments in Nevada, and expand coverage to more residents. This initiative will make Nevada the third state, following Washington and Colorado, to implement a state-offered public option.
The program, dubbed Battle Born State Plans (BBSPs), will be available to individuals purchasing their own insurance. Enrollment is projected to increase by 600 in 2026, with steady growth in subsequent years. The state’s waiver is expected to result in $300 million to $500 million in federal funds, which will be used to lower premiums and improve healthcare quality.
The plans will mirror existing health insurance offerings on Nevada Health Link, but with reduced premiums, as mandated by the legislation. Nevada’s reinsurance program and premium reduction targets are expected to lower individual market premiums by up to 5.9% by 2030.
Despite some resistance, notably from Governor Joe Lombardo, who criticized the public option during his campaign, the state plans to use the federal funds to stabilize the insurance market and incentivize insurers and healthcare professionals, especially in areas with shortages. The goal is to reduce costs for consumers while improving healthcare access and quality across Nevada.