Two years after a push for more transparency in the costs of insulin for diabetes treatment, state Sen. Yvanna Cancela is hoping to shed even more light on prescription drug prices and the health care system in Nevada.

As the Trump administration’s efforts to address high prescription drug costs and put the Affordable Care Act on the chopping block have languished, Nevada’s Democratic-controlled Legislature is taking health care into its own hands this session. Lawmakers heard six bills on Wednesday that would have significant implications for the way health care is provided in the state.

The Department of Justice says it will not defend the Affordable Care Act in court. President Donald Trump is again leaning on congressional Republicans to come up with a suitable replacement to the law. In Nevada, where Obamacare is more popular than not, Democratic state and federal politicians are crying foul.

Despite a judge’s ruling last week that left association health plans in flux, state and local chambers of commerce are still committed to pushing forward with such plans. 

Most hospitals in Nevada would have to accept Medicare if a bill working its way through the state Legislature passes.

One point drew clear agreement Tuesday during a House subcommittee hearing: When it comes to the problem of surprise medical bills, the solution must protect patients — not demand that they be great negotiators.