Senate Commerce Committee Chair Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) expressed support for a bipartisan bill aimed at compelling TikTok’s Chinese parent company to divest its ownership of the app or risk a ban in the U.S. The move comes following an update to extend the divestment period, addressing concerns regarding the timeframe for the sale.

Extension of Divestment Period

Cantwell highlighted the extension of the ByteDance divestment period from six months to a year as a crucial adjustment to ensure sufficient time for a potential buyer to finalize a deal. The amendment aims to alleviate criticisms that the initial bill imposed a short timeframe for divestment before banning the app.

Legislative Progress and Concerns

The bipartisan legislation, known as the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversarial Controlled Applications Act, garnered broad support in the House, passing shortly after its introduction. Cantwell’s endorsement paves the way for the bill’s advancement in the upper chamber. However, progressive Democrats have raised concerns about potential infringements on users’ free speech rights, indicating potential points of contention as the legislation progresses.

The 21st Century Act

The updated bill forms part of the 21st Century Act, a comprehensive foreign aid package presented by House GOP leaders. Alongside provisions for the forced sale of TikTok, the legislation includes measures such as new sanctions on Iran, military aid to Ukraine, and authorization for the federal government to utilize seized Russian assets for Ukrainian reconstruction costs.

TikTok’s Response and Presidential Support

TikTok has vehemently opposed the legislation, refuting claims of national security threats posed by the app. Despite resistance from the company, President Biden has signaled his intention to sign the bill into law should it pass through Congress.

Potential Legal Challenges

While the bill’s passage could result in significant ramifications for TikTok, potential legal challenges loom. Past attempts by the former Trump administration and various states to ban the app have been met with legal obstacles in federal court, suggesting that any enforcement of a ban may face judicial scrutiny.

Conclusion: Future of TikTok in the Balance

As the debate over TikTok’s ownership and national security implications unfolds, the fate of the popular social media platform hangs in the balance. With bipartisan support for legislative action, coupled with vocal opposition and the specter of legal challenges, the future trajectory of TikTok in the United States remains uncertain. For further updates on this evolving story and more news coverage, download The Local News App today.

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