TikTok ban bill signed into law by Biden, ByteDance faces divestment deadline

President Joe Biden signed a bill on Wednesday that includes a deadline for TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to divest within nine months or face a ban on app stores distributing the app in the U.S. This legislation was part of a broader package that included military aid for Israel and Ukraine. The White House’s approval came swiftly after strong bipartisan support in the House and a 79-18 Senate vote on Tuesday in favor of advancing the bill.

TikTok spokesperson Alex Haurek stated that the company plans to challenge the law in the courts, potentially extending the timeline if enforcement is delayed pending a resolution. There’s also uncertainty about China’s response and whether ByteDance will be allowed to sell TikTok and its algorithm.

“As we continue to challenge this unconstitutional ban, we will continue investing and innovating to ensure TikTok remains a space where Americans of all walks of life can safely come to share their experiences, find joy, and be inspired,” Haurek said.

TikTok CEO Shou Chew objected to lawmakers’ assertions, stating, “Make no mistake, this is a ban. A ban on TikTok and a ban on you and your voice,” in a video posted on the platform.

@tiktok

Response to TikTok Ban Bill

♬ original sound – TikTok

As the clock starts ticking for ByteDance, the future of TikTok in the United States hangs in the balance, awaiting further legal and diplomatic developments.