Chap. 0396 An Act to expedite the settlement of claims for pensions. 

Be it enacted, etc., as follows:

Section 1. The governor with the advice and consent of the council shall appoint a citizen of this Commonwealth to be a state agent for the settlement of pension, bounty and back pay claims of citizens of this Commonwealth against the federal government. His salary shall be two thousand dollars per year, and he shall hold office until his successor is appointed and confirmed.
Section 2. A suitable office, clerical assistance, and travelling expenses when necessary to visit Washington, shall be furnished by the state; bills thus incurred to be approved by the adjutant-general and audited by the state auditor.
Section 3. The said agent shall furnish information, prepare papers, expedite the adjudication of claims and assist claimants in proving their cases, keep records of the work done in his office, and make an annual report to the legislature of the operation of his office.
Section 4. There shall be paid to the council of administration of the Grand Army of the Republic in the department of Massachusetts the sum of three thousand dollars, to be used under their direction in the payment of any bills heretofore incurred by them in securing pensions, bounties or back pay, and for providing temporary relief for soldiers and sailors needing the same.
Section 5. The sum of seven thousand dollars may be expended for the purposes named in this act.
Section 6.   This act shall take effect upon its passage.
Approved May 23, 1888.