Which of the following best describes appropriations in relation to law making?

• A. Tax revenues allocated to private sector projects
• B. The oversight of spending by inspectors
• C. Funding provided for discretionary programs that have already been authorized
• D. A mandatory spending policy

Answer: (C)

Appropriations are the funding component of the legislative process. After a program is authorized, Congress must allocate the actual dollars through an appropriation to fund that program for the coming year. This describes funding provided for discretionary programs that have already been authorized. Appropriations are distinct from tax allocations to private projects, spending oversight by inspectors, and mandatory entitlement spending, which isn’t set through annual appropriations.