Imposition of a sentence of imprisonment

The court, in determining whether to impose a term of imprisonment, and, if a term of imprisonment is to be imposed, in determining the length of the term, shall consider the factors set forth in section 3553(a) to the extent that they are applicable, recognizing that imprisonment is not an appropriate means of promoting correction and rehabilitation. In determining whether to make a recommendation concerning the type of prison facility appropriate for the defendant, the court shall consider any pertinent policy statements issued by the Sentencing Commission pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 994(a)(2) .

(Added Pub. L. 98–473, title II, § 212(a)(2) , Oct. 12, 1984 , 98 Stat. 1998 ; amended Pub. L. 100–690, title VII, § 7107 , Nov. 18, 1988 , 102 Stat. 4418 ; Pub. L. 101–647, title XXXV, § 3588 , Nov. 29, 1990 , 104 Stat. 4930 ; Pub. L. 103–322, title VII, § 70002 , Sept. 13, 1994 , 108 Stat. 1984 ; Pub. L. 104–294, title VI, § 604(b)(3) , Oct. 11, 1996 , 110 Stat. 3506 ; Pub. L. 107–273, div. B, title III, § 3006 , Nov. 2, 2002 , 116 Stat. 1806 ; Pub. L. 115–391, title VI, § 603(b) , Dec. 21, 2018 , 132 Stat. 5239 .)