It's very controversial to "well-informed, faithful Catholics". It's also very misleading and confusing to the "run-of-the mill Catholic, who's conscience has evolved seperately from the mind of the Church"; Kerry's an example.
The archbishop should not tacitly let these poor souls continue their ways, with no discipline.
Receiving Holy Communion, while in a state of mortal sin, incurs another mortal sin. It's the archbishop's duty to help these souls get to Heaven; not to turn a blind eye as they continue down the path towards eternal damnation.
That is a bishop's duty: to be a good shepherd; to find that lost sheep and bring it back to the flock.
The good shepherd needs to nourish the entire flock, not the troublesome one who keeps slipping away. He will get to that sheep, but not to the detriment of the others who have been starving in recent years.