Dean Muge Akpinar-Elci and Dean Shawn Gerstenberger wrote this first-person perspective about the importance of public health to Nevada for the Nevada State Legislature.

Public health is the steady, guiding force behind every strong community, every healthy family, and every child who grows up with the opportunity to flourish. When public health initiatives succeed, they seamlessly integrate into our daily lives, often going unnoticed — until they are no longer in place.

A strong public health system is the key to a thriving Nevada: ensuring the well-being of our communities, protecting against disease, and fostering a resilient economy. We urge state leaders in Nevada’s 83rd legislative session to seize the opportunity to continue investment and prioritize sustainable funding for public health.

Nevada has consistently ranked last in per capita public health spending. Investing in the public health workforce is paramount. A strong, well-trained workforce is the backbone of an effective public health system. Workforce development efforts, including training programs and competitive salaries, are essential to attracting and retaining skilled professionals who can respond to health crises, promote preventive care and serve Nevada’s diverse communities.

One of the most critical measures this session is the continuation of $15 million in non-categorical funding for governmental public health agencies included in the Governor’s budget. This historic funding, first appropriated in 2023, marked a turning point for Nevada, allowing local health authorities to address their most pressing needs. At approximately $5 per person, this investment remains modest, but its impact is profound. We are grateful to Governor Lombardo for recognizing the importance of sustained public health investment and including funding that will equip agencies to respond to emerging health threats, expand disease prevention efforts, and strengthen the infrastructure that protects Nevada’s communities.

Another key priority is securing complementary funding to provide a base level of support for public health needs in tribal, rural, and frontier regions of the state, as well as improve state public health infrastructure. Senate Bill 423 establishes a sustainable, statewide base funding system to build local public health infrastructure and empower local decision-making. Nevada’s public health system is largely dependent on federal grant funding and recent cuts to public health funds, as well as uncertainty around future federal funding, make state funding more important than ever.

Gathering accurate and timely data from at risk communities in our state is the first step to addressing challenges and then providing support to meet the need. Yet federal cuts and uncertainty are already affecting essential data collection for certain populations. The Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) are vital tools that provide critical data on behaviors related to substance use, mental health, nutrition and physical activity. Without sustained and adequate funding, Nevada risks losing crucial insights that inform policies and programs designed to improve the health and safety of communities across the state.

Public health is not just a cost; it is an investment with significant returns. Every dollar spent on prevention and early intervention saves money in future healthcare costs, reduces the burden on hospitals and improves overall quality of life. By continuing to prioritize sustainable, non-categorical public health funding and workforce development, Nevada can build a healthier, more resilient future for all residents.

Advocating for the needs of Nevada and our communities means advocating for public health. Now more than ever, make your voice heard by telling your legislators that funding public health matters to you. Reach out to your elected officials, attend public hearings and join local advocacy groups – your voice can directly influence the health of your community.