A federal appeals court has ruled again that airport police can enforce a city ordinance barring the Hare Krishnas and other groups from soliciting immediate donations at Los Angeles International Airport, officials said Thursday.

In July, the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals lifted a preliminary injunction which barred Los Angeles Airport Police from enforcing the ordinance

prohibiting solicitation and receipt of funds in the terminals, parking areas, and adjacent sidewalks at the airport.

But the International Society for Krishna Consciousness of California filed papers requesting a re-hearing, and the court agreed to keep the injunction in place while that request was considered.

The court on Wednesday, however, denied that request and ordered that its July decision lifting the preliminary injunction take effect immediately,

according to airport officials.

The city and the Hare Krishnas have been battling over the issue in court since the Los Angeles City Council adopted the ordinance in 1997.

Organizations still can distribute literature and speak to willing travelers at the airport. They can even seek financial support, as long as they not request the immediate exchange of funds.

Violators face a penalty of up to six months in jail or a fine of $1,000, if convicted.