Massachusetts woman says TikTok ban would negatively impact businesses
MARBLEHEAD - For the millions of Americans who rely on TikTok as a source of income, a potential ban is causing financial concerns, especially for one Marblehead business.
The future of the popular social media app has been up in the air. TikTok voluntarily shut down in the United States Saturday night.
On Sunday, TikTok began restoring service to users in the United States after the shutdown that lasted less than a day. The company said Sunday it was in the process of reinstating access after President-elect Donald Trump vowed to issue an executive order to restore the app.
Markey tries to extend TikTok ban
Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey had been calling on the Biden administration to extend the deadline of the ban by 90 days.
"It's a vital part of our American economy and we need more time in order to work out all of the issues that surround TikTok. But we cannot allow it to go dark," Markey said. "I have been in constant communication with the White House, urging them to extend the deadline."
Sen. Markey said that several constituents have reached out, explaining the importance of the app.
"It's even more than business," Markey said. "A grandmother told me she uses TikTok to communicate with her grandkids."
Marblehead business booms from TikTok
Small businesses in Massachusetts also rely on the app for promotion. It has revived several family-owned and small businesses throughout the state. Marblehead jewelry business Coastal Caviar went viral on TikTok with one video reaching eight million views, which caused people to flock to her company.
"Our business completely launched from that moment. Our life turned upside down. We've kind of been chasing our tail ever since," founder Kelly Schneider said. "None of this would've been possible without TikTok."
She worries about what might happen to new businesses who won't have the platform to market themselves to the public.
"I hope that we're able to come to some sort of solution. I'm still somewhat in denial that this is even happening. I think a lot of people are," Schneider said.