RFC Editor Model (Version 3) transition, RFC Series Working Group, and RFC Series Approval Board establishment

The transition to the RFC Editor Model (Version 3) is underway. This is the result of the work done in the RFC Editor Future Development Program and was recently published as RFC 9280: RFC Editor Model (Version 3).

The RFC Editor Model (Version 3) divides the responsibilities for the RFC Series into two high-level tasks: policy definition governing the RFC Series as a whole, and policy implementation through publication of RFCs in all of the streams that form the RFC Series.

Under this model, the RFC Series Working Group (RSWG) is an open working group independent of the IETF that generates policy proposals. The Internet Architecture Board (IAB) and the Internet Engineering Steering Group (IESG) were tasked with appointing one chair each to the RSWG. The IAB has appointed Pete Resnick, who will serve a two-year term alongside Eric Rescorla, who was appointed by the IESG for a one-year term. To participate in the RSWG, sign up for their mailing list. The RSWG will hold a first meeting during IETF 114, on Monday, 2022-07-25. Thanks to Pete and Eric for agreeing to take on this role, and also to all of the other candidates for their willingness to serve the community in this position!

The RFC Series Approval Board (RSAB) is an appointed body that approves RSWG proposals for publication in the newly-created Editorial Stream. The RSAB has been named, with the exception of the RFC Series Consulting Editor (RSCE). Recruitment of the RSCE is currently underway, and the RSCE will join the RSAB when they are hired. The current RSAB includes:

Jay Daley (IETF Executive Director, non-voting ex-officio)
Lars Eggert (IETF Stream representative)
Sandy Ginoza (RFC Production Center representative, non-voting ex-officio)
Mirja Kühlewind (IAB Stream representative)
Eliot Lear (Independent Stream representative)
Colin Perkins (IRTF Stream representative)

RSAB meetings will be announced on the RFC Editor website and to the RSWG mailing list at least one week in advance. RSAB meetings shall be open for public attendance, with the exception of confidential matters that require executive session. The RSAB may be reached at rsab@rfc-editor.org. The archives of this mailing list are public.

With the establishment of the new RFC Editor model, the IAB closes down both the RFC Editor Future Development Program and the RFC Series Oversight Committee (RSOC). The IAB would like to thank the RSOC members, the RFC Editor Future Development Program chairs, and all participants for their active engagement!