I understand your argument but you have to wonder why there are writers trying to get work into publications who aren’t even prepared to pay $5 to have unlimited reading? I don’t own a publication that others can write for but, if I did, I would want writers to also be supportive fellow writers, along with the publication, by reading the other stories published, and clapping and commenting. It’s a community not just a free publishing house. And most writers are wanting to make some money from their writing too, so why shouldn’t publications be actively promoting the need to be a paid member.
Or, the free member can save his/her 3 free articles for submission guidelines and join 3 new publications per month.