What is the primary responsibility of an executive agency?

The primary responsibility of an executive agency is to manage programs. Executive agencies are typically tasked with implementing and administering policies and programs that have been established by legislation or executive orders. Their role often includes providing essential services, overseeing regulatory processes, and executing government initiatives in specific areas such as health, education, and transportation.

While making policy may be a component of their work, especially in terms of providing recommendations or drafting regulations, it is not their central duty. Instead, executive agencies focus on the effective and efficient management of the programs designed to achieve the goals set forth by higher levels of government. Therefore, the emphasis on managing programs reflects the primary operational function of these agencies, ensuring that policies are translated into actionable and measurable outcomes in the public sector.