Arrr, me hearties! Montana TikTok ban be facin' a mighty battle from digital rights groups, claimin' it be a "unconstitutional" bill!
2023-08-15
Arrr, me hearties! Montana be plannin' to be the first land in the US to scuttle TikTok from all devices. But fret not! Brave souls fightin' for our digital rights be ready to give 'em a taste o' their own medicine!
Digital rights advocate groups are opposing a proposed Montana TikTok ban, which is set to take effect on January 1, 2024. The ban has been deemed unconstitutional and will make Montana the first US state to completely ban TikTok. The social media company and five TikTok creators have decided to challenge the legislation in court, with the support of digital rights advocates.The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) have filed an amicus brief in support of the lawsuit. They argue that the ban violates citizens' rights to free speech and access to information. Imposing such a ban would prevent users from speaking and associating via TikTok, which is a clear violation of the First Amendment.
Tensions between the US and TikTok have been escalating, with several countries and government agencies implementing restrictions on its use. The Montana ban is part of a larger trend of governments cracking down on the social media platform. Human rights campaigners and internet experts have been calling for the government to reconsider such bans, citing concerns about digital rights, surveillance, censorship, and online security risks.
The amicus brief also highlights how the ban would disproportionately affect minority groups and hinder their ability to foster solidarity online. Other tech groups have also backed the lawsuit, arguing that the ban undermines the structure and purpose of the internet.
While the legal battle continues, users are advised to consider using a VPN to access TikTok if the ban eventually comes into force.