Amendment Process

Rulemaking

Each year, the Commission reviews and refines the guidelines in light of decisions from courts of appeals, sentencing-related research, congressional action, and input from the criminal justice community. In June of each year, the Commission publishes proposed priorities. In May of the following year, the Commission submits to Congress any final amendments to the federal sentencing guidelines. More on the amendment cycle.


 
 

"Reader-Friendly" and Official Text of Amendments