As part of its review, TPR also studied the need for various boards and commissions created by the state through the years. Against the Grain contains a number of recommendations to eliminate or consolidate outmoded agencies, boards and commissions, producing both immediate and ongoing cost savings for Texas. The Structural Pest Control Board plans to use new equipment to cut its costs and improve efficiency. An optical scanner for grading exams reduces staff time. Digital pagers have cut travel costs by allowing the agency to contact investigators in the field so they can respond to other nearby problems.
Investigators also cut travel costs by using portable copiers to help document complaints.
The agency has applied for discretionary funds from the Environmental Protection Agency to buy this equipment for its investigators.