Final answer:
The United States Department of Transportation was created in 1966 and is responsible for authority and financial support in the development of life support programs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The entity that was created in 1966 and provides authority and financial support for the development of basic and advanced life support programs is the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT). This department, among its various functions, has played a significant role in formalizing and advancing emergency medical services. The USDOT oversees national transportation safety which includes the development of paramedic and emergency medical technician training programs. These efforts are part of broader legislative measures such as the Highway Safety Act of 1966, aimed at improving overall highway and traffic safety.