### Question
What is the definition of direct loan?


### Answer
The definition of **direct loan** is as follows in *45 U.S.C. § 821*:

> a disbursement of funds by the Government to a non-Federal borrower under a contract that requires the repayment of such funds

#### Citation:
  - *45 U.S.C. § 821*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 17-RAILROAD REVITALIZATION AND REGULATORY REFORM > SUBCHAPTER II-RAILROAD REHABILITATION AND IMPROVEMENT FINANCING**

