The US House of Representatives approves a bill with bipartisan support, aiming to make ByteDance sell TikTok or face a ban, citing national security worries.
The US House of Representatives has voted to approve a bill aimed at forcing ByteDance, the Chinese parent company of TikTok, to sell the popular video-sharing app or face a ban in the United States. The legislation passed with significant bipartisan support in a 352-65 vote. The bill is a response to concerns over national security, citing fears that user data could be accessed by the Chinese government. ByteDance would have 165 days to comply with the divestment requirements if the bill becomes law.
This legislative move reflects ongoing worries about the impact of Chinese technology in the US, with similar actions contemplated during Donald Trump’s presidency in 2020 and at a state level in Montana. Despite TikTok’s assurances regarding data privacy and its assertion that it does not share information with China’s government, US intelligence and security officials have briefed lawmakers on potential risks, contributing to the momentum behind this bill.
President Joe Biden has indicated his willingness to sign the bill should it reach his desk, underlining the administration’s stance on the matter. However, the future of the legislation in the Senate remains uncertain, as concerns have been voiced by some members over the implications for free speech and the precedent it might set for other China-owned platforms like WeChat.
The debate over TikTok’s future in the US centers on whether the app’s ownership lies within the United States or remains under the control of ByteDance. Amidst this legislative process, TikTok has mobilized support, emphasizing the rights of American users and the platform’s community. The outcome in the Senate and the subsequent decision by President Biden will ultimately determine the app’s fate in the country, highlighting broader concerns over security, privacy, and international relations in the digital realm.
