Leander businessman Jordan Smith said he wanted to let lawmakers know how TikTok helped him grow his business. (Photo: Jordan Smith)
AUSTIN (KXAN) — The debate over a potential ban on TikTok has become a very serious issue for some small businesses in Central Texas.
The House of Representatives passed a bill in March that would force China-based owner ByteDance to sell the app or potentially lead to a nationwide ban.
Some lawmakers are concerned that TikTok is sharing user data with the Chinese government and that Chinese authorities are tampering with the company's algorithms, which could influence how Americans view them. are doing.
So far, the US government has provided no evidence of that.
House Republican leaders included the bill Wednesday in a series of bills that would send aid to Ukraine and Israel. If Congress moves quickly, the bill could become law as early as next week.
In addition to having bipartisan support in the House, President Joe Biden has said he intends to sign the bill once it reaches his desk.
“TikTok has been very popular for me.”
Leander's management hopes that won't happen. She took her grievances to Washington, DC.
Jordan Smith is the owner of The Elevated Closet.
“I own a clothing brand specifically for tall women,” Smith said. “For us, it's very difficult to find pants or dresses that are long enough. I'm here to provide that for other tall women.”
Smith said he is constantly working to expand his customer base.
A tool to help her? Tick-tock.
“I create creative videos to get the attention of tall women. Over the past five months, it has accounted for 30% of my small business's sales.”
Jordan Smith “The Elevated Closet”
Smith said customers can shop through the app.
“They see me talking on video and moving on video,” Smith said. “They will see the clothes live and instantly, with the click of a button, the item will be purchased and directed in their direction.”
Smith said that while he is making money, he is also spreading the word about his business to thousands of people with each post.
“TikTok was very popular for me. I grew up very quickly.”
Jordan Smith “The Elevated Closet”
Smith fears losing business without the app.
“It would be a real shock to see this platform go, because it has been so helpful,” Smith said. “This has been very positive community building for tall women across the country.”
On Thursday, she traveled to Washington to speak with the offices of Texas Sens. John Cornyn and Ted Cruz.
“Talk to your senators about how to leverage TikTok,” Smith said. “What makes it different from other platforms?”
Smith said she was able to talk about her concerns. She left hoping that the encounter would bring about change.
