WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – House lawmakers voted Wednesday to pass a bill that could lead to a nationwide ban against TikTok, one of the world’s most popular social media apps.
The House passage of the bill is just the first step and now as it heads to the Senate, lawmakers there don’t seem as eager to take it up.
The House voted 352 to 65 on a bill that would give TikTok six months to cut ties with its China-based owner or risk being removed from app stores in the U.S.
Virginia congressman Bobby Scott gave his own statement in support of the bill.
“This week, Members of Congress were given a classified briefing on the national security threats caused by foreign adversary control of communications applications and their ability to easily purchase Americans’ data and influence public opinion. This bill does not ban TikTok, but instead requires the Chinese parent company, ByteDance Ltd., to divest from TikTok within 180 days. It is my expectation that they will in fact divest in a timely manner and American users should be able to continue to use TikTok and other similar platforms, without the associated risks of an app being owned and operated by a foreign adversary of the United States. Congress must continue working to hold Big Tech companies accountable to protect Americans’ data, ensure our anti-trust laws are enforced to avoid media and tech monopolies, and avoid foreign adversaries manipulating public opinion, especially during elections.”
Other lawmakers are expressing additional support that TikTok possesses foreign threats.
“With every dance challenge and lip sync video, American users are unknowingly contributing to a vast surveillance apparatus,” said Rep. Nick Langworthy (R-N.Y.).
Supporters of the bill argue TikTok poses a national security threat because of its ties to China, putting users’ personal data at risk.
“Congress is stating the data rights of Americans have got to be safe from foreign government manipulation,” said Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.)
Some lawmakers argue the bill is unconstitutional.
“The bill seriously undermines civil liberties by essentially banning a platform that 150 million Americans use to engage in free speech and expression,” said Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.)
It’s not clear how it will fare in the upper chamber.
“I think it’ll die in the Senate,” said Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.)
“The ball is now in the court of the senators, and I trust leader Chuck Schumer,” said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.).
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer indicated the Senate is in no rush to address the House bill saying in a statement that the Senate will review the legislation when it comes over.
President Joe Biden has said if the bill reaches his desk, he will sign it into law.
