Texas university professors sue state over TikTok ban, alleging violation of First Amendment rights

A group of Texas university professors filed a lawsuit challenging the state's ban on TikTok, arguing it infringes on First Amendment rights and academic freedom.
The ban prohibits state employees, including university faculty, from accessing TikTok on state-issued devices and networks.
The lawsuit alleges the ban hinders professors' ability to conduct research and teach on topics related to TikTok and technology.
Over 20 states have implemented bans on TikTok citing national security concerns over its Chinese ownership.
The professors seek exemptions to the ban, asserting it unconstitutionally restricts academic freedom protected under the First Amendment.