Using Discretionary Fiscal Policy to Smooth the Short-Term Business Cycle

Using discretionary fiscal policy to smooth the short-term business cycle is challenging because:

A) the data needed are not available for almost a month after the fact.
B) it often takes up to a quarter to confirm a recessionary phase.
C) once the policy is decided, it can be implemented immediately.
D) deciding on fiscal policy often takes a long and contentious legislative process.