they both seem way too eager for my taste to go along with this nonsense
Based on what? They have specifically addressed the issue and it does not read like they're eager to have this forced on them by state laws.
https://blog.system76.com/post/system76-on-age-verification
We are accustomed to adding operating system features to comply with laws. Accessibility features for ADA, and power efficiency settings for Energy Star regulations are two examples. We are a part of this world and we believe in the rule of law. We still hope these laws will be recognized for the folly they are and removed from the books or found unconstitutional.