The Kentucky Supreme Court has declined to hear a challenge to a ruling that allows a reference to "Almighty God" in the state homeland security law.
The Courier-Journal reports that justices issued a brief order last week saying they would not review the case, which was brought by several residents who were represented by the group American Atheists. The order means a ruling by the Kentucky Court of Appeals upholding the reference stands.
The plaintiffs had claimed in a 2008 suit that the law was a violation of constitutional bans on state-sponsored religion.
Edwin Kagin, who is the national legal director for American Atheists, said the order was a disappointment. He says he will discuss with his clients whether to drop the case or appeal it to the federal level.