Montana Strikes First Blow in War Against TikTok

Montana's Governor, Greg Gianforte, has signed a bill prohibiting using TikTok in the Treasure State, making it the first US state to do so. The legislation, which will take effect on January 1, 2024, prohibits app stores like Google and Apple from making the app available for download within the state. Violators, including TikTok and app stores, could face fines of $10,000 per day. The move has drawn criticism from TikTok and free-speech advocates, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), who argue that the ban infringes on First Amendment rights. The legality of the ban is expected to be challenged in court, and the outcome could have implications for a potential nationwide prohibition of TikTok being considered by Washington.