SAN DIEGO — A California judge has rejected a request by physicians to immediately suspend a new state law allowing terminally ill people to end their lives.

Judge Daniel A. Ottolia of Riverside County Superior Court ruled on Friday that the law would remain in effect for now. But he agreed to allow the physicians to pursue their lawsuit claiming that the law lacks safeguards against abuse.

The law, which took effect on June 9, allows terminally ill adults to obtain a prescription for life-ending medication if a doctor has determined they have no more than six months to live.

Supporters of the law have argued that terminally ill people could face prolonged, painful deaths if it is suspended.