The United States Sentencing Commission is an independent agency of the federal government that was established in 1984. Its primary role is to create guidelines for sentencing in federal criminal cases, ensuring consistency and fairness across different jurisdictions. The Commission also studies the effects of sentencing policies and practices. The Commission is composed of seven voting members, including federal judges and experts in criminal law. It provides recommendations to Congress and the President regarding sentencing policies and can also amend its guidelines. The goal is to reduce disparities in sentencing and promote just punishment for federal offenses.