RE:Reading Between the Lines
The cynic in my thought it could be to prevent any short position originating from the employees. For example, I have stock option with strike $50 vesting in a month. If the stock price is at say $60 and I want to lock in my profit, then I would enter into a short position at $60 to lock in the profit.
I'm sure that isn't the intent but I've gotten somewhat cynical since the 7 day straight drop before the option expiry date on April 15. There is def heavy manipulation going on here.