OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - The U.S. Supreme Court has asked the government to file a legal brief involving a North Texas water district's lawsuit over Oklahoma laws concerning out-of-state water sales.

The nation's highest court entered the order Monday. It invites the solicitor general to file briefs "expressing the views of the United States."

The Tarrant Regional Water District sued to invalidate Oklahoma laws governing the appropriation and use of water within its boundaries that North Texas communities allege pose burdens to interstate commerce. A federal appeals court in September upheld dismissal of the lawsuit.

The district's attorney, Kevin L. Patrick, says he is pleased that the court recognizes the importance of the case. Patrick says Texas and Oklahoma agreed to share water in the Red River Compact and that it should be enforced.