AUSTIN (KXAN) — The debate around a potential TikTok ban hits close to home for some small businesses in Central Texas.
The House passed a bill in March that could force the Chinese-based owner, ByteDance, to sell the app or lead to a nationwide ban.
Some lawmakers are concerned TikTok shares user data with the Chinese government or that Chinese authorities have tinkered with the company’s algorithm, which influences what Americans see.
To date, the U.S. government has not provided evidence showing that.
On Wednesday, House Republican leaders included it in a package of bills that would send aid to Ukraine and Israel. The bill could be law as soon as next week if Congress moves quickly.
Not only does it have bipartisan support in the House, but President Joe Biden said he would sign the legislation if it reaches his desk.
‘TikTok has been very viral for me’
A Leander business owner hopes that doesn’t happen. She took her frustrations to Washington, DC.
Jordan Smith is the owner of The Elevated Closet.
“I own a clothing brand, specifically for tall women,” Smith said. “It’s really difficult for us to find pants long enough, dresses long enough. I’m here to provide that for other tall women.”
Smith said she constantly tries to grow her customer-base.
A tool that helps her? TikTok.
“I make creative videos to try to get attention of tall women. In the last five months, it has been 30% of my small businesses sales.”
Jordan Smith, The Elevated Closet
Through the app, Smith said her customers can shop.
“They see me talking in the video, moving in the video,” Smith said. “They see the clothes on live, and they can immediately click a button and the product is purchased and it will be heading their direction.”
At the same time she’s making a profit, Smith said she’s also spreading the word about her business to thousands per post.
“TikTok has been very viral for me. I have grown super fast.”
Jordan Smith, The Elevated Closet
Smith fears that without the app, she will lose business.
“It would really devastate me if this platform went away, just because it has been so helpful,” Smith said. “It’s been such a positive community builder for tall women all across the country.”
On Thursday, she went to Washington to speak with the offices of Texas Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz.
“Talk to the senators about how we utilize TikTok,” Smith said. “What makes it different from other platforms.”
Smith said she was able to talk about her concerns. She left hoping her meeting made a difference.