the "why" behind it. You opened yourself up to criticism. It seems like your question is genuine. I respect that a lot.

Second, I understand what you were hoping to accomplish. But I think you made a major misstep for a few of the reasons mentioned above.

-you likely set a precedent, but not the one you think
-employees can and will actively sabatoge managers and organizations, I've been on the receiving end.. You likely gave that group motive and enough rope to slowly wrap around your professional neck
-I've come to believe rehire eligibility policies are largely useless and are only ammunition for the % of disgruntled staff to convince the rest of the staff to join the "opposition". It's like telling your ex wife you won't buy her flowers anymore.

You screwed up. We ALL do it. Acknowledge it. Own it. Don't repeat it.

Good luck. Leadership isn't easy 👍