Correct Answer: Official rules and bureaucracy that make it difficult to do something.

Solution : The second option is the correct answer.

The idiom, red tape refers to excessive bureaucratic procedures or formalities that can impede or delay progress, especially in official or administrative processes. The idiom red tape originated from the practice of tying up official documents with red-coloured tape, indicating their significance or official nature. Over time, the term has evolved to represent bureaucratic obstacles and excessive formalities in official processes.