Additional Coverage:
- TikTok ban bill is getting fast-tracked. Here’s what to know. (newsbreak.com)
**US Congress Moves to Force Sale or Ban of TikTok Amid Security Concerns**
In a significant pushback against TikTok, the popular social media platform owned by Chinese company ByteDance, the US Congress is gearing up to enact legislation that would mandate the sale of the app or face an outright ban within the United States. This move comes amidst growing apprehensions over the collection of user data by TikTok and ByteDance, sparking national security worries.
The proposed bill is expected to be brought to the House floor as part of larger aid packages intended for Ukraine and Israel, with a vote slated for Saturday evening. This decisive action reflects the escalating concerns among US lawmakers regarding the potential for sensitive user information to be accessed by foreign entities, thereby posing a threat to national security.
Previously, an attempt to pass a similar bill saw success in the House but encountered obstacles in the Senate, highlighting the complexities involved in regulating international tech companies. However, the revised version of the bill seems poised to offer ByteDance a window of nine months to facilitate the sale of TikTok. Additionally, a three-month grace period could be granted, underlining the urgency and seriousness with which the US government is approaching this issue.
The legislation’s advancement underscores the intensifying scrutiny over TikTok’s operations and its parent company, ByteDance. With millions of Americans using TikTok for entertainment and expression, the outcome of this legislative effort could markedly influence the digital and social media landscape in the US.
As the vote approaches, all eyes are on Congress to see if this move will pave the way for a significant shift in how foreign-owned technology platforms operate within the United States, amid growing concerns over data privacy and national security.
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- TikTok ban bill is getting fast-tracked. Here’s what to know. (newsbreak.com)