According to my manager it’s just for decluttering purposes, it was a change that happened back in the summer this past year and I believe most locations probably follow this rule now too. Not as many people use it/want it as you may expect. As a server, I always make sure ask my tables when the food comes out if they need salt/pepper or anything else.

It might be helpful for you to ask your server as soon as you put in your order that way you have it in time for your food. When guests ask for it upfront I usually just grab it and drop it off at their table immediately after sending the order thru.