Congress passes bill requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok or face ban

The clock is ticking for TikTok as the US Senate has passed a security package that could potentially ban the popular video-sharing app from American app stores in 270 days unless its Chinese owner, ByteDance, sells the platform. The legislation, which was approved by a vote of 79-18, aims to counter threats from China and protect the personal data of the 170 million Americans who use TikTok.

President Joe Biden is expected to sign the $95 billion package, which includes funding for countries like Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. The bill gained momentum after security officials warned that Beijing could force ByteDance to hand over user data, sparking concerns about national security.

Despite TikTok’s denial of Chinese government control, lawmakers are pushing for the app’s divestment to safeguard American interests. The House passed the bill last month, and it faced some resistance in the Senate over free speech concerns. However, the bill was fast-tracked by bundling it with funding for Ukraine, making it difficult for senators to oppose.

While TikTok has previously faced attempts at a ban by the Trump administration, the current legislation poses a significant threat to its presence in the US. Experts believe that Beijing may not allow ByteDance to hand over the app’s algorithm, potentially leading to TikTok’s exit from the American market.

As the battle over TikTok’s future unfolds in the courts, Congress is urging younger Americans to understand the national security implications at stake. With the fate of TikTok hanging in the balance, the app’s fate in the US remains uncertain.