Remember the good old days when no Yosemite permit was needed?
… Since the permit system for climbing the cables on Half Dome was established two years ago, there has been quite a bit of conflict and frustration around the “first come, first serve” system. After the initial balking at the “reservation fee” required for permits, the attention soon shifted to the larger problem: permit scalpers. …
… the park service will be implementing a new strategy for Half Dome permits this year. Rather than a first come, first serve situation, those hoping to climb the cables this summer will be able to submit their name (and up to 6 guests) into a lottery for $4.50 online (or $6.50 over the phone). This reservation fee is non-refundable.
… The other major change is that the permits will no longer be transferable. …
It’s worth it if you’ve never been. Click PLAY or watch an awesome time lapse video on Vimeo.
(via Yosemite Blog)
besthike.com 
An unsubstantiated observation: As soon as unrestricted access becomes a permit system, the demand increases; when it goes to lottery, suddenly everyone must do it now.
Sort of like restaurants: the most highly regarded ones are those that won’t let you in.