The deputy director general emphasized the number of repeatable visa exempts will depend on individual immigration officers who have absolute discretion. (Khun Naruchai Ninnad, representing the ministry)
Citizens of 93 countries receive a 60-days stamp each time they enter Thailand. After that, you can extend your stay in Thailand for another 30 days (1900 THB at each immigration). If you want to stay longer, you can repeat this procedure if you leave Thailand for at least 24 hours.
As for Visa-Exempt 60days + 30days extension, Visa runs and bounces on the same day are not allowed. You have to stay min. 1 night in another country before you start the same procedure.
No, "The new visa measures, which are awaiting Cabinet approval, are expected to be a formality, according to Traisulee." Forget all newsletters and info-messages. Wait until it is published by the Royal Gazette.
YES ! Don't worry. Keep your old passport. Show both when you re-enter the country and have the stamps tranferred on the new passport at the immigration where you stay.