What is the role of the Congressional Budget Office (CBO)?

The role of the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) is primarily to provide nonpartisan analysis and information to help Congress make informed decisions regarding the federal budget and economic policies. This independent agency is crucial in evaluating the economic impact of proposed legislation and providing estimates of budgetary outcomes, which enables lawmakers to understand the fiscal implications of their actions.

The CBO conducts economic forecasting and budgetary analysis, delivering impartial assessment free from political influence. This capacity allows Congress to utilize CBO reports for comprehensive evaluations of various budgetary approaches and fiscal strategies. In contrast, other options misrepresent the CBO's functions. The CBO does not advise the President directly, oversee implementation of policies, or prepare the federal budget itself; these tasks are typically the responsibilities of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and various executive branches. Thus, the emphasis on the CBO's nonpartisan analytical role solidifies its importance in the legislative budgeting process.