TikTok's Service Providers Still Risk Billions in Penalties for Bringing it Back Online
Service providers risk facing billions in fines for keeping TikTok online.
Matilda
TikTok's Service Providers Still Risk Billions in Penalties for Bringing it Back Online
Despite celebratory messages from TikTok, the recent developments surrounding the app's ban leave many questions unanswered. The incoming president has indicated he intends to extend the deadline for TikTok's divestment, assuring companies they will not face penalties for allowing the app to remain operational. However, the legality and enforceability of such an extension remain highly uncertain. The Ban: A Complex Legal Landscape Congress passed legislation mandating TikTok's divestment from its parent company, ByteDance, or face an outright ban. This law included a provision allowing for a 90-day extension of the deadline under specific conditions. The outgoing president declined to utilize this extension. The current situation presents several critical questions: Can the incoming president unilaterally override the existing law? The answer is likely no. Simply declaring an extension does not negate the legal framework established by Congress. What recourse do service provide…
