If true, then strongly indicates the real reason behind cutting out the Book Study. With one less meeting night per week, visits can be condensed into a weekend, thus eliminating "official" CO position, which means:
1) Saves $$$
2) Cuts ties between the local congregations / BOEs and the "mother" organization, reducing legal liability.
Downside for the GB is, less control over the congregations. But it seems fear of lawsuits is stronger than the desire to maintain tight control.
Changes have been coming really fast lately, I would expect them to give the congregations a chance to breathe a bit. Again if true, I would expect this to be announced no earlier than 2010, maybe late 2009.