House vote sparks fear of imminent ban among TikTokers

TikTok and its users are rallying against a proposed bill that might ban the app nationwide. The platform is urging customers to approach representatives, while CEO Shou Chew seeks last-minute meetings with Congress to voice opposition.

The potential ban threatens 5 million businesses, relying on TikTok for promotion.

While the bill is expected to pass the House, its fate in the Senate is uncertain, with Senator Rand Paul vowing to block unconstitutional measures.

President Joe Biden supports the bill, which requires TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to sell the app within 180 days or face removal from US app stores and web-hosting services.

Existing bans
Over 30 states have already barred TikTok from state devices, with Congress forbidding it on federal devices in 2022. 

TikTok has fought bans in Montana and faced lawsuits in Arkansas and Indiana.

If the bill is approved, it would mark the first time Congress approved legislation leading to the prohibition of a social media platform nationwide.