Methods, systems, and devices for wireless communications are described. In some systems, a user equipment (UE) may perform path-loss estimation to support uplink transmit power control. The UE may perform path-loss estimations on path-loss reference signals configured by a base station. In some cases, the base station may update (e.g., activate, deactivate, or both) particular path-loss reference signals using a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE). The UE may determine which path-loss reference signal or signals to use for path-loss estimation based on one or more techniques. For example, the UE may filter path-loss measurements over a time duration or may use a single, unfiltered path-loss measurement for path-loss estimation. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may receive deactivated path-loss reference signals (e.g., for a set amount of time or for any amount of time) or may refrain from receiving deactivated path-loss reference signals.