The House is expected to consider H.R. 5145 on May 24, 2010, under suspension of rules, requiring two-thirds majority vote for passage.  Rep. McNerney (D-CA) introduced H.R. 5145 on April 27, 2010, and it was referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.  On May 12, 2010, the full committee reported H.R. 5145 by voice vote.

H.R. 5145 increases the reimbursement rate for continuing education classes from $1,000 to $1,600.  In addition, H.R. 5145 expands the number of health care professionals who can qualify for reimbursement to key health care professionals, such as nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists. 

Currently, under the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) program, physicians and dentists may be reimbursed up to $1,000 (established in 1991) for continuing education classes.  The increase in the reimbursement rate reflects the effects of inflation.  According to the VHA, more than 9,500 employees are eligible but few request reimbursement because many continuing education classes are free at VHA facilities.   

CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 5145 would cost $42 million over 2010-2015, assuming appropriation of the necessary amounts.  Paygo doesn't apply to H.R. 5145 since the bill doesn't affect direct spending or revenues.