That's economics. There's no such thing as a free lunch. If HN gives out free API access and holds the line, them I don't see a problem with it. Personally I do

That's economics. There's no such thing as a free lunch. If HN gives out free API access and holds the line, them I don't see a problem with it. Personally I do think you should charge some minimal amount so people don't abuse it. Development for new features could also be funded from this income.