Prohibits the use or access of the TikTok application on state-issued electronic devices.
Summary
This bill would amend the New York State Technology Law to prohibit state agencies and their employees from downloading, using, or visiting the TikTok application or website on government-issued devices. The restriction applies to state-issued cell phones, laptops, and other internet-capable devices used by state personnel.
The bill also extends the prohibition to any person or entity that contracts with the State of New York or with a state agency, board, bureau, authority, or commission, barring them from using TikTok on state-issued or state-leased equipment. The measure would take effect immediately upon enactment.
Impact
If enacted, the bill would create a new section of the State Technology Law establishing a statewide device-use restriction tied to TikTok. It would affect state agencies, state employees, and state contractors by limiting access to the app and its website on official or leased equipment, but it would not directly regulate private personal devices or general public use. The practical effect would be to formalize cybersecurity and data-access restrictions for government technology environments.
Sentiment
No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate or roll-call sentiment in the materials supplied. Based on the bill text and its caption, the measure appears to reflect a precautionary, security-oriented approach to restricting TikTok on government devices. The introduction by a bipartisan mix of sponsors suggests the issue may have had some cross-party appeal, but the available record does not show whether the bill advanced or faced opposition.
Contention
The main point of contention likely concerns whether a TikTok ban on state devices is a necessary cybersecurity safeguard or an overbroad restriction on employee and contractor device use. Supporters would likely emphasize data privacy, foreign influence, and state network security, while critics might argue the bill singles out one platform, could be difficult to enforce, or may be unnecessary if broader device-security rules already exist. Because no transcripts or votes are included, specific objections or supporters cannot be identified from the record provided.
Terminate TikTok on Campus Act of 2023 This bill prohibits an institution of higher education (IHE) from receiving federal funds unless the IHE takes certain actions to ban the use of the social media video application TikTok. Specifically, the IHE must develop and implement standards and guidelines (1) prohibiting the use of TikTok on electronic devices owned or issued by the IHE, and (2) requiring the removal of TikTok from these devices. The bill includes an exception for research that (1) is conducted, supervised, or authorized by an IHE's faculty; and (2) pertains to national security, law enforcement, telecommunications, or cybersecurity.