The term "federal agency" does not include which of the following?

The term "federal agency" specifically refers to any national governmental body operating within the federal framework, primarily established by the Constitution or federal law. This includes departments, independent agencies, and executive offices that have been created to implement specific laws and policies. The executive office, such as the Office of the President, is indeed a part of the federal government and, therefore, qualifies as a federal agency.

On the other hand, native American tribes that assume responsibilities under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) or general local governments do not fit within the traditional definition of a federal agency. Native American tribes, while recognized by the federal government and often entering into agreements related to environmental regulations, retain their sovereign status and are therefore seen as distinct entities rather than as federal agencies. Similarly, general local governments operate at state or municipal levels and do not carry the same federal designation.

Thus, the correct choice highlights that the executive office is inherently a part of the federal government, while the other options encompass entities that do not align with the definition of a federal agency.