1. Making permanent and codifying pilot program for use of contract physicians for disability examinations (a) In general Subchapter I of chapter 51 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 5103A the following new section: 5103B. Use of contract physicians for disability examinations (a) Authority (1) In general Examinations with respect to medical disability of applicants for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary that are carried out through the Under Secretary for Benefits may be made by persons other than employees of the Department. (2) Contracts Any examination by a person under paragraph (1) shall be performed pursuant to a contract entered into by the Under Secretary for Benefits with that person. (b) Licensure of contract health care professionals (1) In general Notwithstanding any provision of law regarding the licensure of health care professionals, a health care professional described in paragraph (2) may conduct an examination pursuant to a contract entered into under subsection (a) at any location in any State so long as the examination is within the scope of the authorized duties under such contract. (2) Health care professional described A health care professional described in this paragraph is a person who is eligible for appointment to a position in the Veterans Health Administration covered by section 7402(b) of this title, who— (A) has a current unrestricted license to practice the health care profession of the health care professional; (B) is not barred from practicing such health care profession in any State