Which of the following describes a state official?

A state official is specifically defined as someone who holds an office in the state government, often through election or appointment, to serve in a public capacity. While the role of a governmental agency concerned with health and safety can involve state officials, it does not inherently define the individuals that comprise that agency.

State officials are typically those individuals elected or appointed to manage government functions, enforce laws, and represent the interests of the public. This includes roles like governors, state legislators, or other elected representatives. The other options do not directly define a state official; for instance, an employee of a private organization is not involved in public governance, a local government employee typically operates at a municipal level, and while agencies have a critical role in public service, they do not refer specifically to state officials themselves.