The .org registry is currently run by VeriSign, but it came to an agreement with Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) last year to cease being the registry operator in December 2002.
ICANN will solicit proposals for a replacement operator from May 1, with the deadline for submission being June 18, when the tentative examination fee will be paid, according to an announcement from ICANN. On June 28 ICANN will establish the final examination fee, which will not exceed US$35,000. The announcement states: -Rebates will be made if the final examination fee is less than the US$35,000 tentative examination fee."
The application fee is based on -ICANN's likely costs in connection with soliciting and reviewing the applications, making the selections, and any related costs" according to the preliminary minutes of the ICANN meeting where the resolution was passed.
ICANN expects to make the final decision in late August 2002, after community consultation through public forum.
