Definitions for "Rural Utilities Service"
An agency within USDA charged with administering activities that support rural telecommunications, distance learning and telemedicine, electrical, and water and waste disposal activities. RUS assistance can be provided in the form of direct and guaranteed loans, and grants.
As a Federal credit agency in the United States Department of Agriculture, RUS provides a leadership role in lending and technical guidance for the rural utilities industries. RUS is the Federal "point" agency for rural infrastructure assistance in electricity, water and telecommunications.
An agency, which is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, that makes financing available to rural telephone and electric organizations so they can provide service in rural areas. The Rural Utilities Service makes low-interest-rate loans, and guarantees loans mad by others. The Rural Utilities Service also administers a rural development loan program and a program for distance learning and telemedicine grants.