Final answer:
The primary function of the legislative branch is creating and modifying laws, as established in Article I of the Constitution. The legislative branch, such as the U.S. Congress, also has checks over the judiciary branch and is responsible for the appropriations process. Both national and state legislatures are essential in legislative processes and oversight.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major function of the legislative branch of the government is creating and modifying laws. This is clearly outlined in Article I of the Constitution, which establishes Congress as the lawmaking entity of the national government. The legislative branch, often consisting of two houses such as a Senate and a House of Representatives, is also responsible for other key governmental functions like the appropriations process, whereby it allocates government funding, and performing oversight of the executive branch.
To answer the question about the checks the legislative branch has over the courts, the correct answer is d. all of the above, as the Senate must approve the appointment of justices and federal judges, Congress can rewrite laws that have been declared unconstitutional, and it may also withhold funding needed to implement court decisions.
Furthermore, state legislatures are crucial in governing more localized aspects of our lives, and legislative bodies can vary from national congresses to city councils and even international entities like the European Parliament. The bicameral nature of many legislative branches, including the United States Congress, allows for a balanced representation of constituencies and supports the essential legislative process.