diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index c6e6638..2c181fa 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -43,6 +43,8 @@ Each multicodec is marked with a status:
 * draft - this codec has been reserved but may be reassigned if it doesn't gain wide adoption.
 * permanent - this codec has been widely adopted and may not reassigned.
 
+NOTE: Just because a codec is marked draft, don't assume that it can be re-assigned. Check to see if it ever gained wide adoption and, if so, mark it as permanent.
+
 ### Adding new multicodecs to the table
 
 The process to add a new multicodec to the table is the following: