I agree with you 100%. And I actually prefer the week (ish) out 'online walk up' as if I'm free that weekend I can book a permit and know I have it in hand vs. just hoping that a permit MIGHT be available if I make the 3-4 hour drive with plans. I also agree that all should be available online and when safe, sure go ahead and issue them in person as well, but like you say most folks have to travel to get to the eastern sierras, and having permit in hand would be FAR preferrable.