I obtained my masters degree and PE license before I had children.  I stayed home for a few years with them.  I don't know how I would have had time or money for continuing education.  I do believe continuing education is very important so I did continue to read my engineering magazines.  I feel mandatory continuing education could impact women.  You never know ahead of time what medical or mental help your children may need.  Your time may need to shift to your children for a time being while some issues with them are worked out.  Once your children are situated, your time can then be more focused on continuing your engineering work.  Please don 't take the flexibility away from women or others who may temporarily need to adjust their schedules and career tracks.