It's due to the higher market volatility mixed with many small trader blow ups. Once volatility drops, sometime next summer, we should see margin requirements go back down.
Unless (small trader) has closing trades producing realized negative account values, which is different than maintenance margin calls, which are calculated and determined several times daily by the brokerage, clearing firm, and the exchange itself, (small trader) has zero impact/input on exchange mandated margin requirements.
And yes, as/if/when volatility decreases, margins should retreat, sans any government obstructions or objections to existing policies and procedures.
