Which executive authority allows an official to select specific line items from a budget?

The correct choice pertains to line-item veto authority, which grants an official, typically a governor or president, the power to selectively reject individual provisions or items within a budget bill without having to veto the entire legislative package. This authority is particularly significant because it allows the executive to exercise discretion over spending by eliminating specific allocations, which they may view as unnecessary or excessive, while still permitting the passage of the remainder of the budget.

Understanding the utility of the line-item veto is essential in governmental budgeting, as it enhances the executive's ability to influence fiscal policy directly and ensures a more tailored approach to budget management. The implementation of this authority can lead to more efficient government spending and a strategic approach to addressing fiscal priorities. The distinction of this power lies in its selective nature, allowing for precision in budgetary control rather than an all-or-nothing approach.