For which types of programs is a government most likely to use cost-benefit analysis? Select all that apply. - Changing a school lunch program - Building a courthouse, regardless of size - Hiring new police officers and firefighters - Planning when to repave a road - Hiring new teachers for a school

A government is likely to use cost-benefit analysis for all the types of programs listed, as they all involve the allocation of public resources and have the potential to produce both costs and benefits that can be measured and compared. Here's how cost-benefit analysis might apply to each example:

- Changing a school lunch program: A government might analyze the costs associated with changing suppliers or ingredients versus the benefits of potentially healthier meals for students or more locally sourced food that supports the local economy. - Building a courthouse, regardless of size: Building construction involves significant costs, so a government would assess the expected benefits in terms of improved legal services, community security, or economic impact versus the total costs of construction and maintenance.

- Hiring new police officers and firefighters: The cost of salaries, training, and equipment would be compared with the benefits of crime reduction, improved public safety, and potentially lower insurance rates for homeowners.

- Planning when to repave a road: A government would consider the costs of the repaving project, including materials and labor, against the benefits of smoother traffic flow, reduced vehicle damage, and increased safety.

- Hiring new teachers for a school: The costs include salaries and benefits for the new teachers, while the benefits might be reduced class sizes, improved student performance, and higher graduation rates.

Extra: Cost-benefit analysis is a powerful tool used by governments to make decisions about public policies and projects. The idea behind this analysis is to quantify in monetary terms the benefits and costs associated with a program or project, and to use this information to determine whether the benefits outweigh the costs. The government can then prioritize projects with the greatest net benefits and use its resources more efficiently. This kind of analysis can also be used to compare different options to achieve a goal and to provide transparency and accountability in decision-making. Governments use this method for various initiatives, from small local projects to large national policies, in areas like infrastructure, health, education, and safety. Due to limited resources and the need for effective policymaking, cost-benefit analysis is a crucial component of good governance.