US and TikTok Seek Fast-Track Schedule for Ruling on Potential Ban
The US Justice Department and TikTok are requesting a fast-track schedule from a US appeals court to hear legal objections to a law that requires ByteDance to sell TikTok's US assets or face a ban. TikTok founders and ByteDance have joined the Justice Department in asking a ruling by December 6 to allow for a possible Supreme Court review before the January 19th deadline. TikTok founders and ByteDance have filed lawsuits alleging that the law violates the US Constitution, namely the First Amendment's free speech provisions.
Earlier this week, a group of TikTok producers launched a lawsuit to overturn the rule, which could potentially ban the app used by 170 million American citizens. They contend that the law has had a significant impact on American society.
Last week, TikTok and its parent firm ByteDance filed a similar lawsuit, claiming that the rule breaches various aspects of the US Constitution, including First Amendment free speech protections.
The US Justice Department and TikTok petitioners stressed the importance of resolving this dispute quickly due to the vast number of TikTok platform users, claiming that the public has a strong interest in its settlement.
TikTok expressed optimism that with a quick timeline, the court case may be addressed without the need for emergency preliminary injunctive relief.
The law, signed by President Joe Biden on April 24, gives ByteDance until January 19 to sell TikTok or face a ban. The White House intends to eliminate Chinese-based ownership for national security reasons, but not to completely ban TikTok.
The parties have asked the court to schedule oral arguments as soon as practicable on the September case calendar. The Justice Department has also stated that secret evidence to support national security justifications could be submitted in confidence to the court.
Earlier this week, the Justice Department declared that the TikTok legislation "addresses critical national security concerns in a manner that is consistent with the First Amendment and other constitutional limitations."
The rule bars app stores such as Apple and Google's Alphabet from distributing TikTok, as well as internet hosting services, from supporting the platform, until ByteDance divests from it.
Driven by fears among US lawmakers about potential data access by China or eavesdropping via the app, the measure was passed with overwhelming support in Congress shortly after its introduction.
The US Justice Department and TikTok are seeking a fast-track schedule from a US appeals court to address legal challenges to a law requiring ByteDance to divest TikTok's US assets or face a ban.
TikTok creators and ByteDance have joined the Justice Department in requesting a ruling by December 6 to allow for potential Supreme Court review before the January 19 deadline.
Lawsuits have been filed by TikTok creators and ByteDance, arguing that the law violates the US Constitution, including First Amendment free speech protections.
Source: REUTERS