President Donald Trump has signed an executive order that delays the enforcement of actions against TikTok for 75 days, aiming to restore the app’s service in the United States.
The executive order directs relevant government agencies to work towards a resolution that ensures national security while allowing TikTok to continue operating. Specifically, the order instructs the U.S. Attorney General to refrain from taking any enforcement actions for a period of 75 days under the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act (PAFACA), which had effectively banned TikTok in the U.S. as of Sunday, January 19.
The text of the executive order states, “During this period, the Department of Justice shall take no action to enforce the Act or impose any penalties against any entity for any noncompliance with the Act.” Furthermore, it adds, “Even after the expiration of the above-specified period, the Department of Justice shall not take any action to enforce the Act […]”
This executive action by Trump follows a decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to uphold PAFACA, a law that was passed with bipartisan support during the term of former President Joe Biden.