Which powers does a governor have in the budget process?

• A. Unilaterally rewrite all laws
• B. Negotiate international trade deals.
• C. Create new independent agencies without legislative approval.
• D. Propose the budget, sign or veto appropriations, and use line-item veto.

Answer: (D)

In the budget process, the governor shapes state spending by proposing the budget and making decisions on appropriations. The governor can sign or veto appropriations, and use the line-item veto to strike specific spending items within a budget bill while leaving the rest intact. This allows the governor to influence priorities and spending levels, but does not grant the power to rewrite laws or control federal matters. The other actions listed aren’t within state powers: rewriting all laws unilaterally isn’t allowed, negotiating international trade deals is a federal responsibility, and creating new independent agencies requires legislation passed by the Legislature.