Not only is this mind-bogglingly ridiculous, it literally contradicts Apple's posted information at the top of the "App Information page in the Developer Dashboard:
"To make changes to the app name, category, or privacy policy, create a new app version. All other changes will be immediately available." Hmm, apparently not. Despite the doomsaying tone of Apple's email to all its app developers, it would seem that there is no urgency to do anything. If we ever need to release an app update, then we'd need to update the app's age ratings, which is essentially already part of applying for a new app release...so in essence this is Apple crying a bit of wolf in order to force us through unnecessary hoops.
Topic:
App Store Distribution & Marketing
SubTopic:
General