Federal Judge Sandy Mattice has declined to allow Rhea County religious activist June Griffin from intervening in the Hamilton County Commission prayer lawsuit.
In a four-page ruling, he said, "The Court can discern no recognizable claim or defense raised by Ms. Griffin's motion."
Two residents filed suit against the commission, seeking to block its policy of having opening prayer.
A second individual, Chattanooga minister Charles Wysong, also sought to intervene. However, Judge Mattice also denied that request.
A hearing in the case is set for Thursday morning.