What A TikTok Ban Would Mean

If the TikTok ban becomes law, it would have significant implications for both the app and its users. 

Here’s what it could mean:

App Store Restrictions: If signed into law, the bill would prevent app stores like Apple and Google from distributing or updating TikTok. This means that users would no longer be able to download or update the app through these platforms1.

Web Hosting Impact: Web hosting companies would also be prohibited from distributing TikTok. This could affect the availability of the app on websites and other online platforms1.

User Persistence: Despite a ban, existing TikTok users might continue to use the app if they already have it installed on their devices. However, without updates, the app’s functionality and security could be compromised over time1.

Legal Challenges: Even if President Joe Biden signs the bill into law, it will likely face legal challenges from TikTok and its supporters. TikTok has successfully fought back similar measures in the courts before, so the battle may continue1.

Forced Divestiture: The bill would force ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, to sell TikTok’s U.S. operations within months of the legislation becoming law. Failure to comply could result in a nationwide ban1.

Extended Divestiture Deadline: Unlike the original House measure, the bill gives ByteDance nearly a year (nine months, with a possible three-month extension) to divest TikTok. This extended deadline may help the bill survive legal challenges1.

Foreign Aid Package Connection: The TikTok ban was lumped in with Speaker Mike Johnson and House Republicans’ $95 billion foreign aid package. This connection underscores the political context and urgency surrounding the issue.