It’s no secret that Tiktok has been a worldwide sensation since its inception in 2019. Even with its popularity, many officials in political power have been advocating for a ban on the app, along with other policies regarding social media, with their new bill proposing a ban on Tiktok. 

The RESTRICT Act, Restricting the Emergence of Security Threats that Risk Information and Communications Technology Act, is one that was proposed, though still hasn’t passed, and would allow for the ban of TikTok across the U.S. effective immediately. Given the popularity of Tiktok among students, it’s fair to say that many are opposed to the ban.

  “I don’t think the ban is really necessary,” says Senior Moises Liberato, “there isn’t any harm being done by Tiktok.”

It’s clear that students don’t align at all with the bill, and this is evident in the backlash on social media given to the bill, especially from teenagers that use and enjoy Tiktok on a daily basis. Even though there are valid points made by students, there is also the argument that there is a bias towards the app from students, since they have become so attached to the app over the years.

Although many students have been favorable towards Tiktok, the negative side effects of the app on people, particularly teenagers, cannot be overstated in this day and age. Whether it be shortened attention spans, cyberbullying increasing at an alarming rate, or Chinese spyware, there is definitely an argument to be made against the U.S. supporting the app.

Although there are certainly pieces of evidence against the app, there are still a lot of positives to be had with such a widespread social media app.

“I can talk with my friends and send them videos over the Tiktok,” says Senior Julian Encinas. “The app also has a lot of helpful videos in general.”

The connection and entertainment aspect is one of the most common defenses of social media, as it helps people connect in ways that wouldn’t be possible without 

As debate rages on over the social media platform and whether more good or harm is being done by it in official government settings, it seems that most students are in agreement with the idea of a TikTok ban being unnecessary for the betterment of the youth of this country. Since it’s unlikely a ban will occur with the state the debate is in right now, it’ll certainly be a journey to see how the app evolves over the next few years.