A new TikTok ban delay bill might be the lifeline TikTok needs. The bill, introduced by Senator Edward J. Markey on Jan. 13, is catchily called the ‘Extend the TikTok Deadline Act.’
Notably, it doesn’t try to overturn Congress’ current TikTok laws, which he initially voted in favor of. Instead, the bill proposes to extend TikTok’s “buy or sell” deadline by 270 days.
In theory, this would give TikTok more time to explore buying options and other solutions under Trump’s administration, which is set to begin one day after the current “buy or sell” deadline.
What Did Senator Markey Say About the TikTok Ban Delay Bill?
As he announced the bill on the Senate floor on Monday, Markey said that “a ban would dismantle a one-of-a-kind informational and cultural ecosystem, silencing millions in the process.”
“Let me be clear: TikTok has its problems,” he added. “Like every social media platform, TikTok poses a serious risk to the privacy and mental health of our young people. I will continue to hold TikTok accountable for such behavior.”
“But a TikTok ban would impose serious consequences on millions of Americans who depend on the app for social connections and their economic livelihood. We cannot allow that to happen.”
This isn’t the first time that Markey, a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, has been open about his feelings on TikTok.
Along with Senator Rand Paul and Congressman Ro Khanna, Markey submitted an amicus brief.
In the brief, Markey, Paul, and Khanna argue that the TikTok ban lacks evidence and compromises users’ First Amendment right to free speech.
The Senate and TikTok do not seem to have responded to the law yet, but things will become clearer once the Supreme Court delivers its verdict.
