Oklahoma's Own In Focus: Green Country TikTok Influencers Against Potential Ban Of App

The federal House on Wednesday overwhelmingly approved a bill that could ban the social media app TikTok.

The bill would require TikTok to separate from its Chinese parent company or be banned from US app stores in six months.

Related: US House Passes Bill That Could Lead To Nationwide TikTok Ban

Supporters of the bill have national security concerns arguing the Chinese government could force the company to handover data from its 170 million American users.

The company denies they would share data.

“So many people, not only 5 million small businesses, rely on it, but 170 million people rely on this app for more than just their livelihood. They rely on this app for their mental health,” TikTok Influencer J.T. Laybourne said.

People in Green Country who make a living on TikTok are against the proposed ban.

TikTok influencer Katie Harris says not only would a ban hurt her content, but it would prevent her followers from seeing things they may never experience on their own.

Social media influencers are part of a rapidly growing industry.

With nearly 70,000 followers, Tulsan and TikTok influencer Katie Harris says the growth came as a surprise.

“My content is pretty casual. I don’t want it to ever feel like I’m forcing myself to film, and it’s not something I would have already been doing,” Harris said.

Her journey on TikTok began in 2022. She initially focused on daily vlogs before transitioning to highlighting the hidden gems of Tulsa.

"I started posting a lot of things to do in Tulsa because I love Tulsa, and I don’t think a lot of young people know everything amazing that Tulsa has to offer,” Harris said.

Her dedication to showing off her city's attractions quickly garnered attention.

However, looming legislative actions threaten to disrupt Harris's creative endeavors and home renovation projects.

"I do all my budgets based on my 9 to 5 job, but the money I make on TikTok currently, I'm basically just pumping back into my house to make more content,” Harris said.

Harris remains optimistic. She says she has a supportive community, and the platform fosters creativity for everyone.

"It’s fun to watch and see other people succeed, so it just kind of helps you boost your confidence and your creativity to keep going,” Harris said.

TikTok's impact on younger users is a concern for Harris. She stresses the importance of parental supervision and accountability.

"I think most of the issue with TikTok is how it affects children under 18. Just like any app, you need to monitor what your child is watching,” Harris said.

The bill will move to the Senate for a vote. President Joe Biden says if it reaches his desk, he will sign it into law.