Congressman Brett Guthrie discusses possible ban of TikTok
BOWLING GREEN, Ky.-United States Representative for Kentucky Second District, Brett Guthrie spoke about a bill the house has voted to move forward that deals with the popular social media app TikTok.
Lawmakers continue to discuss and research ways to limit threats and ensure the safety of everyone who uses TikTok. The app is owned by the Chinese-based company Byte Dance. If the bill is signed into law, it would make it illegal to distribute apps developed by Byte Dance or any other firms controlled by a foreign adversary.
It could also affect the revenue of several businesses that use the app for marketing and advertising. Guthrie tells us that business is a top priority. When voting, they consider every business that uses TikTok, and that’s why they are in no rush to ban the app.
“A lot of people run their businesses on TikTok or other social media, so we’re not affecting any other social media. And people say, What’s the difference? The difference is, that it is controlled by a foreign entity who is an adversary of the United States. That’s what the law says,” Guthrie says.
There have also been concerns raised over the app’s popularity with young people – not only can it be a distraction for students in the classroom but lawmakers believe that also poses a safety risk.
Kentucky Congressman Guthrie also says, “Every superintendent in Kentucky needs to know this, Every principal needs to know this, and every parent needs to know this. There were certain times on Thursday morning when we received phone calls that you could listen to the teacher teaching in class. I do think it’s a threat. That’s why I voted for the bill. Just think about how the Communist Party in China has in the hands of every single or almost every single young person, the ability to manipulate them like that.”
Lawmakers are in classified briefings discussing concerns about national security when it comes to TikTok. News 40 will continue to follow this story and keep you up to date.
