The US Senate has passed a bill with the potential to lead to tiktok ban in the country due to concerns over national security. This legislation mandates ByteDance, the Chinese owner of TikTok, to divest its stake within nine months, failing which the app would face a blockade in the United States. President Joe Biden has indicated his willingness to sign the bill into law promptly upon its arrival on his desk. TikTok hasn’t responded formally but has previously opposed any attempts to force a sale.
Doug Calidas from Harvard’s Belfer Center highlighted the significance of swift legislative action due to public concern. Passing a law through both chambers quickly is rare and underscores the gravity of the situation.
However, the process of potentially banning TikTok could be protracted, involving legal challenges likely extending to the Supreme Court, thereby elongating the timeline. Additionally, any sale of TikTok would necessitate approval from Chinese authorities, who have pledged to resist such endeavors.
TikTok’s potential sale raises intricate questions on buyers and management, with estimates hinting at a purchase price in billions. Should ByteDance fail to offload its stake within the stipulated timeframe, the app might face prohibition in the US. Data security concerns drive legislation, fearing TikTok’s potential for espionage or propaganda, though TikTok vehemently denies such allegations.
Amidst these deliberations, the legislative measure also encompassed provisions for military aid to Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan, and other partners in the Indo-Pacific region, enjoying considerable support among lawmakers. Senator Marco Rubio emphasized curbing Chinese influence on TikTok as vital for America’s interests, deeming it a positive move. However, TikTok has raised objections citing potential infringements on civil liberties and the adverse economic impact of a ban, stressing its independence from Chinese governmental control and highlighting its significant contribution to the US economy.
Legal battles may prolong resolution despite TikTok’s efforts, say experts, possibly extending the process by about two years. The absence of a buyer within the designated timeframe could further delay any punitive actions against TikTok in the US. TikTok’s fate in the US hinges on legal, economic, and geopolitical factors, with broader implications beyond social media.
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