Last updated: 23 January 2026
Commencement Date
The date when a law or specific provision of a law takes effect and begins to apply. This is different from Royal Assent (when a law is officially passed). A law can receive Royal Assent but not be "in force" until the Government announces a commencement date.
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Commencement Date
Sentencing Act 2026
The primary legislation reforming release points for determinate sentences in England and Wales. Received Royal Assent on 22 January 2026. Key changes include moving standard SDS release from one-half to one-third, and SDS+ release from two-thirds to one-half.