What can Congress do to limit the power of federal agencies?

Congress has several mechanisms to influence the power and operations of federal agencies, and one of the most significant is the ability to cut or reduce funding. This power lies within Congress's control over the federal budget—something that can have immediate effects on the functionality and scope of an agency’s operations.

By reducing funding, Congress can limit an agency's ability to carry out programs and initiatives. If an agency is underfunded, it may struggle to fulfill its missions or adequately serve the public, thereby constraining its authority and effectiveness. This form of oversight is a critical tool because it directly impacts the resources available to agencies, which is essential in managing and directing their activities.

The other options, while related to the functioning of federal agencies or the relationship between Congress and the executive branch, do not serve as direct mechanisms for limiting agency power in the same substantive way as funding reductions do. Approving all bureau actions before implementation or conducting presidential appointments focuses more on creating checks and balances, while nullifying judicial reviews does not fall within congressional powers in a practical or constitutional sense. Therefore, cutting or reducing funding stands out as a concrete and direct action by Congress to influence federal agencies' abilities and activities.