JACKSON, Miss. - Attorneys general from five Gulf coast states say they're cautiously optimistic BP will pay fishermen and others for losses caused by the massive oil spill.

Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood said Thursday the officials wanted to make sure BP would put the claims process in writing and that people who receive quick payments won't have to sign a waiver promising not to sue the company later.

Louisiana Attorney General Buddy Caldwell says BP has promised to make the claims process quick and easy. The attorneys general from Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida say shrimpers, fisherman, hoteliers and other workers can make claims.

The officials say they hope to get the agreement in writing by Tuesday and that claims could be paid in as quickly as two days.