I noticed that it is not possible anymore to contribute vero layouts in the "verified layouts" section. Did I miss something? Or do they first need to be verified in the unverified section?
Correct. Only admins are supposed to have access to add or move things in the verified section. if you have a layout that you've verified just place it in the unverified section with a note saying it's verified. One of the admins will take care of moving it to the verified section.