US House approves TikTok ban bill, Senate to vote next, TikTok contests decision.

On March 13, the United States House of Representatives overwhelmingly voted in favor of a bill aimed at banning the Chinese social media giant TikTok, with 352 votes in support and 65 against. The legislation's next destination is the US Senate, followed by potential approval from the White House.

This move comes amidst renewed discussions among US lawmakers regarding the prohibition of Chinese-owned social media platforms, including TikTok, which boasts a massive user base in America. Concerns over national security risks associated with its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, have prompted lawmakers to take decisive action.

According to the provisions of the bill, ByteDance would be required to divest from TikTok within a 165-day timeframe or cease its operations in the United States altogether. The only scenario in which TikTok could continue operating in the US is if ByteDance opts to sell its interests in the platform.

The passing of the bill by the House of Representatives marks a significant step towards implementing a ban on TikTok within the country. This action reflects the growing bipartisan consensus among lawmakers regarding the perceived threat posed by the popular short-video app, which boasts approximately 170 million American users.

The decision to push for the ban underscores lawmakers' concerns about the potential exploitation of user data and the influence of foreign entities on American social media platforms. Additionally, there are fears that TikTok could be used as a tool for espionage or other malicious activities by the Chinese government.

However, the bill's journey is far from certain, as it now faces deliberation in the Senate, where its fate remains uncertain. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has not yet expressed support for the bill, and some senators, including Republican Rand Paul of Kentucky, have openly opposed it.

The outcome of the Senate vote will determine whether the bill progresses further and ultimately becomes law. Regardless of its fate, the passage of this legislation highlights the escalating tensions between the US and China in the realm of technology and national security.