The U.S. Sentencing Commission, a bipartisan, independent agency located in the judicial branch of government, was created by Congress in 1984 to reduce sentencing disparities and promote transparency and proportionality in sentencing.
The Commission collects, analyzes, and distributes a broad array of information on federal sentencing practices. The Commission also continuously establishes and amends sentencing guidelines for the judicial branch and assists the other branches in developing effective and efficient crime policy. Learn the basics of federal sentencing.
2024-2025 Amendment Cycle
Public Comment
The Commission received comment on proposed priorities for the amendment cycle ending May 1, 2025.
Federal Register Notice
The Commission seeks comment on proposed priorities for the amendment cycle ending May 1, 2025.
Public comment should be received by the Commission on or before July 15, 2024.
Press Release
Embracing the public’s ideas to improve sentencing, Commission unanimously adopts policy priorities.
Federal Register Notice
The Commission published final priorities for the amendment cycle ending May 1, 2025.
Event
A public meeting of the Commission was held on Thursday, August 8, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. (EDT) pursuant to Rule 3.2 of the Rules of Practice and Procedure of the United States Sentencing Commission. This meeting was livestreamed.
Event
A public meeting of the Commission will be held on Thursday, December 19, 2024 at 2:00 pm (EST) pursuant to Rule 3.2 of the Rules of Practice and Procedure.