Montana Governor Greg Gianforte on Wednesday signed legislation banning Chinese-owned short video app TikTok from operating in the state.
The legislation makes Montana the first state to ban residents from having the app, as well as stopping app stores from offering to download it.
Adopted in April
The bill was passed on April 14 when it was sent to Gianforte and passed by Montana lawmakers, 54 to 43, CNN reported.
A fine of 10 thousand dollars, equivalent to almost 100 thousand Swedish kronor, can be issued per violation and day. However, according to the content of the bill, individual users should not be penalized for using Tiktok.
The law is expected to enter into force in January 2024.
Tiktok opposes the law
Shortly after the signing was reported on Wednesday night, Tiktok issued a statement, according to Reuters. The company assures Montana residents that they can safely continue to use the app while it works to defend the right to operate in the state.