Don't know the validity of that statement, but yes I have been hearing about that since the CS started. Most like because of the many problems it has had in the past. However, our dean's office emailed us a statement straight from the nbme saying that it is "alive and running well." Of course they are going to say that though. In any case, you have to take it if you are a img or fmg. And most, if not all US medical school require you to at least take it in order to graduate (acutally many require that you pass it in order to graduate). I do think that the test cost a little too much money though.