# Federal Register #2026-19192

Sentencing Guidelines Amendment for Unmanned Aircraft Offenses

**Buyer:** United States Sentencing Commission
**Posted:** September 18, 2026
**Identifier:** 2026-19192

This notice from the United States Sentencing Commission announces an amendment to the Guidelines Manual, implementing directives from recent federal legislation regarding unmanned aircraft offenses.
- Government Buyer:
  - United States Sentencing Commission (independent agency in the judicial branch)
- OEMs and Vendors:
  - No OEMs or vendors are mentioned; this is not a procurement opportunity
- Products/Services Requested:
  - No products, services, part numbers, or quantities are requested
- Unique or Notable Requirements:
  - Amendment creates new sentencing guidelines for crimes involving unmanned aircraft
  - Tiered enhancements: 6 or 4 offense level increases depending on the nature of the offense
  - Addresses increased statutory penalties for providing contraband to imprisoned individuals using unmanned aircraft
  - Establishes a new felony offense for repeated violations of national defense airspace under 49 U.S.C. 46307
  - Amendment is effective March 15, 2027
- No procurement activity, contract value, or competition is involved

### Description

The United States Sentencing Commission has promulgated an amendment to the Guidelines Manual related to offenses involving the use of unmanned aircraft. This amendment implements directives from the SAFER SKIES Act and includes new sentencing guidelines that increase offense levels for such crimes. The amendment also addresses increased statutory penalties and a new felony offense for repeated violations involving national defense airspace. The amendment is effective March 15, 2027.

[View original listing](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/09/18/2026-19192/sentencing-guidelines-for-united-states-courts)