Washington, D.C (Washington Insider Magazine)— The United States House of Representatives has enacted legislation that could result in a wide ban on the popular social media platform TikTok if its Chinese owner does not sell it. US politicians fear the company’s current ownership structure may threaten national security. This decision derives from national security concerns relating to the current ownership structure.
National Security Concerns
The bill, passed with 352 votes in favour and 65 against, now moves to the Senate. Lawmakers argue that ByteDance’s links to the Chinese government could enable access to TikTok’s extensive user data in the United States, constituting a security risk.
Legislative Details
ByteDance Ltda, a Chinese technology business, owns TikTok, which more than 150 million Americans utilize. US politicians are concerned that Chinese national security legislation may require ByteDance to reveal data to the Chinese government. “We’ve given TikTok a clear choice,” stated Republican Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers. “Separate from its parent company ByteDance, which is beholden to the CCP, or face the consequences.” According to Euronews,
Next Steps
The bill’s future in the Senate remains vague. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer stated that relevant committee chairmen would review and consult the bill.In the Senate. President Joe Biden has pointed out that he would sign the bill into law if it passes through Congress.
Broader Context in Tech Regulation
The House vote is a significant development in the ongoing conflict between lawmakers and the technology industry. Congress has frequently criticized tech platforms for their influence and practices, often clashing with industry executives. Targeting TikTok, a platform with a substantial and youthful user base, marks a new phase in this long-standing dispute.
Opposition and Concerns
Some Republicans opposed the bill, arguing that the U.S. should instead warn consumers about data privacy issues. Meanwhile, some Democrats are concerned about the repercussions of banning millions of American users, including entrepreneurs and business owners. “The answer to authoritarianism is not more authoritarianism,” said Rep. Tom McClintock, R-Calif. “The answer to CCP-style propaganda is not CCP-style oppression.”
This legislative action sheds light on the broader debate over data privacy, national security, and the role of foreign-owned tech platforms in the United States.