The above proposal is compatible with this goal, since it reduces the default copyright term, and adds optional paid extensions on a sliding scale. As compromis

The above proposal is compatible with this goal, since it reduces the default copyright term, and adds optional paid extensions on a sliding scale. As compromises go, it's pretty decent. I few other wrinkles I'd suggest to reduce friction: a copyright registry is being reintroduced[0] here, and this registry must be made public just like patents and trademarks. Registrations and extensions should also be filed a year before expiration (no fair to create a derivative work based on something that is scheduled for expiration only to have the rug pulled out from under you). This gives the creator plenty of time to register a work after publication, minimizing the burden on copyright owners (currently copyright is granted with no notice or registration required). [0] Okay, not really, a copyright registry still exists today, but given it is optional and only affects the amount of damages you can collect from violations and absence from the registry isn't an affirmative defense, it isn't really comparable to the kind of registry that is needed to make such a scheme work. Nor is it comparable to the functions of the registry as it existed before copyright was made automatic.