A lot has changed already since 1998. I don't think it is outside the realm of possibility that the current 2019 date could be allowed to lapse when it arrives,

A lot has changed already since 1998. I don't think it is outside the realm of possibility that the current 2019 date could be allowed to lapse when it arrives, especially if we continue with raising awareness, lobbying/organizing efforts, trying to get notable/influential figures signing on to the cause, etc, for the next 6 years. That would be a depressing "starting point" of progress, to be sure, but since it only requires inaction it might be more achievable than positive copyright reform that requires action, especially since everyone disagrees on the proper action to take.