Final answer:
The legal authorization for the government to make expenditures for specific purposes is reported in an appropriated budget. It is part of the discretionary spending within the federal budget and requires annual authorization by Congress.
Step-by-step explanation:
The legal authorization for the government to make expenditures for specific purposes is reported in a(n) appropriated budget. An appropriated budget is part of the discretionary spending that requires annual authorization by Congress. This spending category is subject to discussions and negotiations among legislators, with some advocating for increased funding for certain programs, while others suggest cuts to allocate resources elsewhere. The federal budget overall comprises both mandatory spending, like Social Security and Medicare, which continues without annual approval, and discretionary spending for programs or departments that are argued over by Congress.