The correct answer to the query is B. Discourage producers from taking harmful actions.
Government regulation aims to protect the public interest by setting rules and standards for various sectors of the economy. These regulations are designed to prevent activities that could harm consumers, the environment, or the economy as a whole. By discouraging harmful actions (such as pollution, unsafe products, or exploitative labor practices), regulations help ensure that producers operate responsibly and ethically.
Thus, option B clearly aligns with the objectives of government regulation.