Which body in Congress is authorized to introduce revenue and appropriations bills?

The House of Representatives is uniquely empowered to introduce revenue and appropriations bills because of the provisions set forth in the U.S. Constitution. Article I, Section 7 states that "All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House of Representatives." This provision was established to ensure that elected representatives, who are directly accountable to the public, have the primary responsibility for taxation and spending decisions. The Constitution emphasizes the importance of representation in such critical matters, as revenue bills directly affect constituents.

The other entities mentioned do not hold the same authority: the Senate can amend or reject revenue bills but cannot initiate them; the Joint Committee serves to facilitate cooperation and coordination between the two chambers but does not have the authority to introduce bills; and the Congressional Budget Office serves a different role, primarily focusing on providing budgetary and economic analysis to help Congress make informed decisions. Thus, the House of Representatives is the correct answer, as it is the only body with the exclusive right to introduce revenue and appropriations bills.