### Question
What does cost mean?


### Answer
**Cost** has the following meaning in *45 U.S.C. § 821*:

> the estimated long-term cost to the Government of a direct loan or loan guarantee or modification thereof, calculated on a net present value basis, excluding administrative costs and any incidental effects on governmental receipts or outlays

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

