duk, like the linked thread says, use of TYP actually probably isn't very good practice. Use of 5X or similar is preferable, or in long hand 5 PLACES or similar.
However, having to show each duplicated dimension is ridiculous as ewh points out and has its own disadvantages.
Given your place doesn't have any standard drawing practices then whatever the boss makes up goes by the sound of it. No point saying ASME Y14.100 doesn't support it or something if your place doesn't care about following ASME standards.
As for the left/right thing. All the places I've worked we've had to do that, I actually prefer it especially with 3D CAD however for old 2D drawings I can see the larger benefit in only describing one.
When I started my place was in a similar state, although no one would have cared enough to ban TYP! My group was started in part to improve drawings standards and we've made some progress but it's been slow, painfull and we have a long way to go. Interesting thing is that Operations/Manufacturing now highly value having drawings checked and are pushing Engineering to have all drawings checked by suitably qualified staff. They refuse to hire anyone else to do the checking though so I'm still overworked and under qualified/experienced!
We're looking at moving some machining overseas and I dread to think how that will go given the state even some newer drawings are in.
KENAT, probably the least qualified checker you'll ever meet...