Embodiments include managing a reverse link transmission power level setpoint during periods of data inactivity on a reverse link traffic channel in a wireless communications system. At an access terminal, upon detecting reverse link data inactivity above a time threshold, a message is generated and transmitted on the reverse link traffic channel at a power level sufficient for the access network to measure transmission statistics to determine whether to adjust the current transmission power level setpoint of the access terminal. Alternatively, the access terminal notifies the access network of an upcoming reverse link data inactivity period, and then lowers its transmission power level setpoint to reduce power consumption during the reverse link data inactivity period. Then, upon detection of a potential reverse link data transmission, the access terminal may then send one or more messages to prompt the access network to modify the access terminal's transmission power level setpoint.