The Disney Corporation has a long history of influencing U.S. copyright law to protect its mascot. Originally, Mickey Mouse was set to enter the public domain in 1984. However, heavy lobbying by Disney led to the 1976 Copyright Act, which extended protection. As the new 2004 expiration date approached, Disney lobbied again, resulting in the 'Sonny Bono Copyright Term Extension Act' of 1998—famously nicknamed the 'Mickey Mouse Protection Act.' This pushed the expiration back another 20 years. On January 1, 2024, the earliest version of Mickey from 'Steamboat Willie' (1928) finally entered the public domain. This means artists can now use that specific 1928 design without Disney's permission, though Disney still maintains trademarks and copyrights on all later, more modern versions of the character.