I wouldn't object to a set number, regardless of the author's life status. I can see the benefit of that. Surely a author can squeeze all they can out of X years. I do see a POSSIBLE need for some short extension. Say they write the first book and it does modestly well. Maybe even several books. Years later they write a huge hit and it renews interest in their first books. What if those books were going out of copyright or just went out? I don't see where the publisher should reap all the rewards.
But you know what? I don't know the answer and this is why I am not the one in charge. I am terrible at these types of decisions. LOL I give myself a headache if I think of all sides for too long.
