The U.S. Supreme Court dismissed California's appeal of a federal judicial panel's order that it reduce its prison population by more than 40,000 in two years.

In its brief order, the high court indicated Tuesday that it will not disturb the three-judge panel's order, which called for the reduction to improve healthcare in the state's prison system.

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger challenged the order, saying the panel exceeded its authority.

Last week, the panel accepted Schwarzenegger's plan to lower the prison population, but put the matter on hold pending the Supreme Court's review.