FILE

In a move aimed at safeguarding national security, the U.S. Congress has introduced the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, also known as H.R.7521. This bill, if enacted, would effectively ban the distribution, maintenance, or provision of internet hosting services for applications deemed to be under the control of foreign adversaries.

The bill specifically targets apps like TikTok, which is operated by ByteDance, Ltd., a Chinese company. Under the proposed legislation, any social media platform controlled by a foreign adversary and identified as a threat to national security could also face restrictions.

However, not all apps would be affected by the ban. Applications primarily used for posting product reviews, business reviews, or travel information and reviews would be exempt.

The Department of Justice would be authorized to investigate violations of the bill and enforce its provisions, with entities found in breach subject to civil penalties based on user numbers. Additionally, covered applications would be required to provide users with all available account data upon request before the prohibition takes effect.

Legal challenges to the bill would be heard exclusively by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, with strict time limits imposed on filing challenges. Critics argue that the bill could infringe on free speech rights and stifle innovation, while supporters argue it is necessary to protect against potential threats to national security.

As the debate unfolds, the future of foreign-controlled apps in the U.S. remains uncertain, with stakeholders closely watching the progress of this contentious legislation.