Math Instructure

JACKSON, Miss. — Officials in Mississippi, Louisiana, Florida and Alabama have asked BP PLC for millions of dollars to pay for mental health outreach and service programs related to the oil spill disaster.

BP spokesman Richard Judy had no immediate response to questions about the money sought by the state agencies, saying only that BP hopes to make an announcement soon about its plan. Judy said the company is developing a comprehensive plan on community outreach and nonprofit support across the Gulf Coast.

Scott Sumrall, disaster response coordinator for the Mississippi Department of Mental Health, said his agency is trying to be proactive.

Mississippi asked BP for $10 million this week to create a grant fund that can be tapped by public and private clinics that are beginning to see a slight increase in patients complaining of anxiety, anger and depression. The agency said another $10 million could be sought later, depending on need.