News Release
August 6, 2025
Press@ussc.gov

 

PUBLIC COMMENT INFORMS SENTENCING COMMISSION’S
2025-2026 POLICY PRIORITIES

Commission Unanimously Adopts Policy Priorities 

WASHINGTON, D.C. ― Today, the U.S. Sentencing Commission has unanimously voted to adopt priorities for the 2025-2026 guideline amendment cycle.  Each year, the Commission solicits comments from the public on how the agency can improve federal sentencing.  Similar to years past, the Commission received insightful feedback on a range of issues from judges, members of Congress, executive branch officials, probation officers, advisory groups, attorneys, academia, advocacy organizations, incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals, and others.

In reflection of the comments and ideas it has received, the Commission voted unanimously to prioritize:

  • Providing courts with additional guidance on selecting the appropriate sentencing option (e.g., imprisonment, probation, or fine).
  • Further examination of the penalty structure for certain drug trafficking offenses, including those involving methamphetamine and fentanyl.
  • Examination of whether the fraud guidelines appropriately reflect the culpability of a defendant and harm to victims.
  • Continued exploration of ways to simplify the Guidelines.
  • Examination of whether the Guidelines provide appropriate adjustments for good behavior.
  • Examination of offenses involving sophisticated means.
  • Examination of the human smuggling guideline to ensure it appropriately accounts for a range of factors. 

In addition, the Commission will continue to prioritize implementing new laws, resolving circuit conflicts, and assessing the degree to which the Bureau of Prisons is effectively meeting the purposes of sentencing. 

“Public feedback continues to be invaluable to the Commission’s work,” said Judge Carlton W. Reeves, Chair of the Commission.  “I am grateful to the many individuals and groups who have taken the time to provide their views to the Commission.  Their views informed our priorities and will help us as we work toward those priorities and continue to pursue policies that improve federal sentencing.” 

A compilation of public comment can be reviewed here.  Visit www.ussc.gov for more information about the amendment process.

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