When might TikTok be banned? What time is the Supreme Court session? How to listen live
The U.S. Supreme Court is set to review TikTok’s future, as they will conduct oral arguments on Friday regarding a proposed ban on the app in the nation, which could happen in less than two weeks.
Last spring, President Joe Biden enacted a law mandating that ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, must sell the platform by Sunday, Jan. 19. If ByteDance does not comply, TikTok will be prohibited in the U.S., resulting in a ban on the app’s distribution in app stores and by internet hosting services. This move was driven by worries about national security, specifically that TikTok might be relaying data from American users to the Chinese government.
In December, the Supreme Court agreed to hear TikTok’s arguments against this legislation, with the company consistently denying claims regarding potential security threats. This hearing is scheduled just nine days before the possible enforcement of the ban.
Despite his previous criticism of TikTok, President-elect Donald Trump has asked the Supreme Court to delay the legislation, hoping to find a way to preserve the platform. Recently, billionaire Frank McCourt and “Shark Tank” host Kevin O’Leary have shown interest in acquiring TikTok’s U.S. operations as part of a group called “People’s Bid For TikTok.”
Here are the details regarding when the Supreme Court will review TikTok’s case and how you can listen in from home.
What points is TikTok making?
TikTok argues that the legislation known as the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, which was signed into law last spring, infringes upon their First Amendment rights.
When will the Supreme Court hear TikTok’s arguments?
The Supreme Court will hold a public session for TikTok’s oral arguments at 10 a.m. EST on Friday.
When will the Supreme Court make its decision?
The Supreme Court may announce its ruling anytime after the oral arguments take place on Friday.
Is anyone allowed to attend the Supreme Court hearing?
The Supreme Court’s oral arguments are open to the public, but spots are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. A line will form outside the court building before the session.
Seating for the hearing on TikTok’s arguments will start at 9:30 a.m., as per the Supreme Court’s website. The Supreme Court building remains closed during court sessions.
For more information regarding courtroom seating arrangements, visit supremecourt.gov/oral_arguments/courtroomseating.aspx.
Can you listen to the Supreme Court arguments live?
Yes, an audio stream will be available during the public session. You can access the livestream on the Supreme Court website at supremecourt.gov/default.aspx. After the session concludes, an audio recording and transcript will also be uploaded to the Supreme Court’s website.
This story was updated to correct an error.