As noble as you're idea may be - and I really do believe it is -, it's probably not the best one. I've seen a lot of newbies recently who've gotten Merits for a few posts here and there, where the Meriter hadn't really looked any deeper in the newbie's post history. As soon as these guys reach Jr. or Member level, they join a campaign; in which case the gates are opened and they flood the forum with spam. I don't have to tell you that many of them are here for only one reason: bounties.

I'd warmly recommend you to do at least a minimal quick check of the poster's history to make sure it's not a complete shitposting spammer who had one lucky shot. If not, you might be unwillingly sponsoring a (future) spammer.

Just my 2 cents. Once again, I think your idea is noble, and you're completely free to do whatever you want to with your well-deserved sMerits.