President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order delaying federal enforcement of a potential TikTok ban until September 17, 2025, marking the second extension of compliance with a law targeting foreign-controlled apps.
TikTok ban delayed again under national security legislation
The delay stems from the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, passed earlier this year to restrict apps deemed national security threats—chief among them TikTok, owned by China-based ByteDance.
Trump’s latest order temporarily blocks any Justice Department action against companies that distribute, maintain, or update TikTok during the extended period. It also shields entities from liability for past noncompliance going back to January 19, 2025.
Key points of the executive order
- New enforcement deadline: September 17, 2025
- No DOJ action allowed: Against TikTok or related entities during or before this period
- Legal shielding: Providers will receive written assurance of no violations or penalties
- Exclusive federal enforcement: States or private parties barred from taking action under the Act
The order also reasserts that only the Attorney General has the authority to enforce the law, citing potential constitutional issues if states or individuals attempt to act independently.
What happens next?
The Department of Justice is now directed to:
- Issue public guidance clarifying the delay and legal protections
- Send letters to providers confirming immunity from past or current violations
- Monitor any attempts by outside parties to bypass federal enforcement authority
While TikTok remains under scrutiny in Washington, this move effectively halts any immediate risk of removal or sanctions, buying ByteDance and its partners more time amid ongoing legal and legislative challenges.
Political and legal backdrop
The Act targeting TikTok was passed with bipartisan support, citing fears over data privacy, surveillance, and foreign influence. However, TikTok has denied wrongdoing and is currently fighting parts of the law in federal court.
President Trump’s latest delay appears to signal a more cautious approach, prioritizing executive control and legal clarity over immediate enforcement.
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