"Because this strategy is likely to significantly increase the number of applications, Inyo would also apply a one trip per leader limit in the lottery to help increase the number of groups to get at least one trip. We would not limit access for the number of trips per year, just the lottery reservations. Frequent hikers would NOT be limited in how many times they got walk in permits or reservations made after the lottery."
This would seem a possible "fly in the ointment" for those of us who tend to organize the trips and do not know in advance who might be participating. Assuming more than one person on the hike then other name(s) could be used (if known), so I'm not sure how much this would surpress the number of applications. Also, the commercial folks would/could be hurt by this. Perhaps they have different arrangements with Inyo, but if they play by the same rules it might be difficult for them to know in advance who the "leader" might be. Perhaps this could be enforced for Friday - Monday, since these are the most sought after days.
Over all I see the changes as positive. More flexibillity with less cost for the public.
