House Passes Legislation to Ban TikTok in the United States if China-Based Owner Doesn’t Sell Stake Within a Year

The House of Representatives passed legislation on Saturday that would ban TikTok in the United States if the Chinese-owned platform does not sell its stake within a year. The decision to include TikTok in a foreign aid package fast-tracked the ban, with a compromise bill passing by a 360-58 vote. However, even if the legislation becomes law, TikTok may challenge it in court, arguing it violates users’ First Amendment rights.

TikTok, with 170 million U.S. users, lobbied against the legislation, urging users to voice opposition to Congress. Lawmakers expressed concerns about Chinese threats and the potential for user data to be shared with the Chinese government. Despite TikTok’s denials, the U.S. government has not provided evidence of data sharing.

The company has a history of successful legal challenges, including blocking a Montana law banning TikTok and overturning an executive order by former President Donald Trump. TikTok has spent $5 million on TV ads opposing the legislation and has garnered support from organizations like the ACLU.

Content creators on TikTok, like Nadya Okamoto, are concerned about the impact of the ban on their livelihoods. Okamoto, who has 4 million followers, relies on TikTok for income and advocacy efforts. The potential ban could have real repercussions for creators and businesses on the platform.

The bill’s passage through Congress is significant as it targets a specific company and reflects growing concerns about Chinese influence. The Senate will now consider the legislation, with potential legal challenges and delays ahead. Stay tuned for updates on the future of TikTok in the U.S.