We're closing in on another one of those dates when a lot of classic works, that are currently owned and controlled by vast corporations, are scheduled to lapse into the public domain. There are some works in that position controlled by individuals but the owners of them likely won't have a seat at the table for the upcoming debate. Pretty much, it all comes down to Disney losing their exclusive hold on Mickey Mouse.
Will the expiration dates be extended again? Past precedent says yes. A rising objection to those extensions says no. This article by Timothy B. Lee lays out the upcoming battle.
I find myself conflicted on this issue…and I think what I want is probably contrary to the Constitution — a fine document but one that was written for another era of technology. The arguments on this topic will surely move front and center before long. As they do, I'll try and gather my thoughts and explain why I think copyrights should not be finite…under certain conditions.