[ThomasMore]

It's an extraordinary penalty

I believe the Church sees it as "tough love". Sort of a last ditch effort to bring the dead back to life. I personally believe that Bishops/Priests/Deacons are a priority, as well as theologians and lay and clerical groups. These are entities that can really wreak havoc on the laity.

[HowlinglyMind-BendingAbsurdity]

Hence, the need for discussion of "excommunication" policy by the bishops (not just on this but on pro-abortion politics, etc.). You are right about the "tough love" in that the mere threat of "excommunication" is intended to shock the person out of their serious sin. I think that just by discussing that they "might" do this would help bring some moral clarity.