[INTEGRATION] Integrate template validation into GitHub branch protection

[ashleyshaw]

Issue Type: Task
Priority: Medium
Phase: 3 (Automation & Enforcement)
Depends on: #717
Effort: 1h

Summary

Configure GitHub branch protection to require PR template validation status check.

Details

• Status check: "validate-pr-template" (from workflow [WORKFLOW] Create PR template validation workflow #717)
• Require this check to pass before merging to main, develop
• Make it required but not dismissible
• Document in BRANCHING_STRATEGY.md

Steps

1. Navigate to GitHub org settings → Branch protection rules
2. Add/update rule for main branch:
   • Require status check "validate-pr-template" to pass
   • Do not allow dismissal
3. Add/update rule for develop branch (if applicable):
   • Same requirements
4. Document enforcement in BRANCHING_STRATEGY.md

Acceptance Criteria

• Branch protection rule includes template validation check
• Applies to main and develop branches
• Status check is marked as required
• Documentation updated in BRANCHING_STRATEGY.md

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Part of: Template Enforcement & Governance project backlog

[linear-code]

LS-864

[ashleyshaw]

Status Update: Backlog published to develop ✅

Template enforcement project backlog is now live. This issue is Phase 3 (Automation) and depends on Phase 2 completion (#712–#716).

Complete backlog: .github/projects/active/template-enforcement-governance/ISSUES.md
Action plan: .github/projects/active/template-enforcement-governance/ACTIONS.md

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