@Mastodon @Gargron Disclaimer: I don't use the Mastodon mobile app but..
On the surface this looks like a terrible idea. It's like featurising the worst gate keeping tendencies of the community.
I also personally wish that development time was not spent on something like this. There are several other features languishing in the pipeline that people are anxious to see implemented.
I understand it's an effort to create a safer space but IMHO it's an over reach.