x
Breaking News
More () »

TikTok ban would hurt Norfolk barber's ability to find clients, showcase work, he says

The House passed a bill to ban the app if its Chinese parent company doesn't sell in six months, something several Virginia members of Congress said they support.

NORFOLK, Va. — The bill that could ban TikTok is on its way to the Senate, after passing the House with bipartisan support. 

This bill would ban the app if its Chinese parent company doesn't sell in six months. Lawmakers have security concerns with ByteDance's ties to the Chinese government.

Virginia Senator Mark Warner says he supports the House vote. He released this statement, saying TikTok has enormous power to influence and divide Americans. 

Republican Congresswoman Jen Kiggans says she voted for the bill, writing: "While I understand that many Americans use TikTok on a daily basis, the concerns over Americans' privacy and the impacts to our national security are too great for congress not to act."

RELATED: House passes bill that would lead to a TikTok ban if Chinese owner doesn't sell. Senate path unclear

The app has over 100 million users in the U.S. and a few barbers in Hampton Roads who use it say potentially losing the app could affect their ability to find new customers and showcase their work.

"It's huge. It's probably the thing that brings in most of the business," Jose Puentes, a barber at Colleywood Cuts in Norfolk said. 

If the potential ban became law, Puentes says he would have to adapt some of his strategies. He says he uses the app to learn new techniques, interact with potential and current customers and promote the barbershop. 

Another barber in the shop, Jaelin Perry, points out how TikTok brings in a variety of new clientele.

"They've definitely brought in, like, a lot of clientele from the colleges from the Navy," Perry said. 

He knows potential customers seeing his work through TikTok before they sit in his chair makes it easier for them to trust he’s going to do good work

Bella Schwartz is another local creator, her business Ash and Bells Designs went viral for her handmade pet tags and scrunchie bandana back in February.  

“The impending ban will severely impact my livelihood," a part of a statement she sent 13News Now said. "I believe its numerous benefits outweigh the drawbacks." 

Before You Leave, Check This Out