JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon began calling the state’s legislative leaders on Friday to ask the General Assembly to return to Jefferson City this month to approve supplemental funding to cover the state’s costs associated with its response to unrest in Ferguson.

Three Republicans with knowledge of Nixon’s outreach said Friday that Nixon is seeking an unknown amount of money to cover the unexpected spending by the Missouri State Highway Patrol and National Guard. According to one lawmaker, Nixon reportedly said he was concerned the National Guard could run out of money in two weeks.

In a statement Friday night, he made it official.

“Time is of the essence. It is vital that we act quickly so that we can fulfill our obligation to the men and women who are so bravely and capably serving their fellow citizens,” he said in an emailed statement.

House Majority Leader John Diehl, R-St. Louis, said he was open to the idea but wanted more specifics from Nixon.

“We are open to a special session to address this crisis, but we will expect Gov. Nixon and his staff to come forward with a written and responsible plan. We also expect Gov. Nixon and those on his staff that made decisions during this crisis to come forward and appear before the legislature,” he said. “It is time for an accounting and for leadership that will not only communicate but work with the legislature to solve this crisis.”

The General Assembly is currently not set to meet until lawmakers return in January.