Answer :
The policy area categorized as mandatory spending from the options provided is Social Security.
1. **Explanation:** Mandatory spending refers to government expenditures that are required by law, typically providing benefits to individuals who meet certain criteria, such as Social Security benefits for retirees, disabled individuals, and survivors.
2. **Example:** Social Security payments are funded through payroll taxes and are considered mandatory spending as the government must make these payments to eligible individuals according to the established criteria.
Therefore, out of the options given, Social Security is the policy area that falls under mandatory spending.
