Restrictions on smoking outside of Cherokee County public buildings could be on the way.

On July 13, the health board discussed recommending further restrictions to county commissioners. Smoking already is restricted inside county buildings.

A new law that will go into effect Jan. 2 prohibits smoking in restaurants and bars, and lodging establishments only can designate 20 percent of their rooms for smoking.

The law provides local governments the authority to regulate smoking in local government buildings and grounds. The law also allows local authority to prohibit smoking in enclosed areas to which the public is invited.