Scams that affect tourism and the image of Thailand as a destination get more attention. It’s worth the try, as long as the time and energy spent on this doesn’t ruin your holiday. I went through a similar process, but gave up, as it was an ordeal.
Ok… I was in Vientiane and travelled along the Mekong all the way to Cambodia… Quiet everywhere in the tourist areas in Laos…. Vientiane, Pakse, Dondet, etc.
I traveled to Laos through Nongkai last month… Zero waiting on both sides and I saw maybe 5 other people crossing at the same time. Granted, it’s the middle of the low season.
If you’re referring to the tourist entry fee that was supposed to be applied soon, it’s been postponed indefinitely, as tourist numbers have been declining.