The correct answer is A) They moved from laissez-faire to greater regulation.
During the progressive era, the government's policy toward business changed in that they moved from laissez-faire to greater regulation.
From 1890 to 1920, the United States lived a moment in history that is known as the Progressive Era. During those years the country lived a series of reformations that were aimed to improve the condition of Americans.
In the specific case of the federal government, it created a series of legislations to prohibit unethical business practices that in the past had favored large companies and rich businessmen. The government also create laws against corruption.