Question

the governor of california is worried about the increasing number of traffic accidents in her state. she decides a new policy is needed to solve the problem. she has identified the issue, so her next step is to form a task force to study the accidents. this group recommends a solution: lowering the speed limit in the areas where the accidents are most common. the legislature passes such a law and sets up authority. the department of transportation and local law enforcement are given the and tools to enforce the new speed limits.

Explanation:

The governor has identified the problem (issue), formed a group to study it (task - force), and the legislature has passed a law and set up a body (authority). The Department of Transportation and local law enforcement need the power and tools to enforce the new speed limits. The missing word should be related to power or ability, and "authority" fits as it gives them the legal right to enforce.

Answer:

authority