(AP) — The Kansas Senate’s top Democrat is calling on Republican Gov. Sam Brownback to name a new state Court of Appeals judge early to give lawmakers more time to vet the nomination.

Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley said Friday that he wants Brownback to nominate the judge by Aug. 9. The deadline set by state law is Aug. 29.

Brownback has called a special session for Sept. 3 to rewrite a criminal sentencing law following an adverse U.S. Supreme Court decision. With lawmakers in session, the Senate will be legally required to consider the appointment.

Hensley said lawmakers won’t have time to properly vet the nominee if the governor waits.

Brownback spokeswoman Eileen Hawley said the governor will act as quickly as possible but shouldn’t face an artificial deadline.