Which of the following is an example of an Independent Executive Agency?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) serves as an example of an Independent Executive Agency because it operates independently from the executive departments and is specifically established by Congress to address environmental issues. Unlike cabinet departments, which are part of the executive branch and headed by cabinet-level officials, independent agencies like the EPA are designed to be more autonomous in order to execute their designated responsibilities effectively. They usually have specific missions and are created to enforce laws and regulations in their area of expertise without direct political interference. The EPA focuses on regulating air and water quality, hazardous waste, and other environmental concerns, which further exemplifies its unique role within the federal structure compared to the other listed options, which are all traditional cabinet departments or agencies within the Department of Justice.