TikTok to keep paying 7000 US employees even if SC does not halt ban

With uncertainty hanging over TikTok’s future in the US, the company has made it clear that its 7,000 employees in the country don’t have to worry about their jobs. 

Even if the US Supreme Court doesn’t block a law that could force TikTok to sell or face a ban, TikTok’s leadership assured staff that their pay, benefits, and employment would remain unaffected. In a memo sent to employees, TikTok emphasised that offices will stay open, and their well-being is a top priority.

Calming concerns amid legal uncertainty

The memo, reviewed by Reuters, aimed to ease concerns among employees, especially with the January 19 deadline rapidly approaching. The law, passed in April, could see TikTok either sold or banned entirely. While the law only impacts the app’s user experience in the US, TikTok reassured employees that it would not affect their work situation. In an internal memo, TikTok’s leadership made it clear that employees’ pay and benefits would not be affected, and offices would remain open. The company stressed that employee wellbeing is a top priority during this challenging time.

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While the law could significantly affect TikTok’s operations in the US, the company stressed that it is focused on continuing to support its employees through this period. US lawmakers, including President-elect Donald Trump, have called for an extension of the deadline to allow for a political resolution, but the Supreme Court’s ruling will ultimately decide the fate of the app.

What a ban could mean for TikTok users

If the law is not blocked by Sunday, new TikTok downloads will be banned on both Apple’s App Store and Google’s Play Store. While existing users can still access the app for now, things could get more complicated as time goes on. 

Without support from other companies, TikTok’s services could begin to degrade, making it harder for users to continue enjoying the app. TikTok acknowledged the challenges in the memo, but it reassured staff that the company is focused on protecting both employees and the millions of users in the US, which number more than 170 million.

Planning for every outcome

TikTok’s leadership made it clear that they’re actively preparing for all possible outcomes. While the future is still uncertain, the company wants to ensure that employees are supported no matter what happens. 

As the January 19 deadline approaches, all eyes are on the Supreme Court, waiting to see how this legal battle will unfold. But for now, TikTok wants its employees to know they’re secure and the company will keep moving forward, no matter what.