Montana to Ban TikTok
Montana is likely to become the first state in the US to ban downloads of the popular social media app TikTok. On Friday, April 14, Montana lawmakers voted 54-43 in favor of banning the app, and app stores will no longer be able to offer it for download. The bill now awaits the signature of Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte before it can take effect.
If signed into law, the ban would prohibit downloads of TikTok in Montana. App stores or TikTok could face $10,000 per day in fines each time someone is offered the ability to access or download the app. However, there would be no penalties for users who continue to use the app after the ban takes effect.
This move comes after concerns about the app's data privacy and security practices, particularly its relationship with the Chinese government. TikTok has repeatedly denied any claims of sharing user data with the Chinese government or any other third party.
However, the ban has been met with criticism, particularly from TikTok itself. Soon after the vote, TikTok condemned the bill and said it was "disappointed" with the decision. The app also highlighted its efforts to ensure user privacy and security, including its US data centers and US-based content moderation team.
It is not the first time TikTok has faced scrutiny from US lawmakers. Former President Donald Trump sought to ban the app in the US last year, citing similar concerns about data privacy and security. However, those efforts were ultimately blocked by the courts.
It remains to be seen whether other states will follow Montana's lead and seek to ban TikTok. However, the move highlights the ongoing concerns about data privacy and security in the age of social media and the challenges that policymakers face in balancing these concerns with the desire to promote innovation and free speech.