This section covers items such as office furniture and equipment; transportation equipment and accessories, including mobile radio systems, stores and shop equipment, laboratory equipment, tools and test equipment.

(a) Contract forms. The borrower may, in its discretion, use RUS Form 198, Equipment Contract, or a written purchase order.

(b) Procurement procedures. It is the responsibility of each borrower to determine the procurement method that best meets its needs for purchase of general plant material and equipment.

(c) Contract approval. Contracts for the purchase of general plant items are not subject to RUS approval and need not be submitted to RUS unless specifically requested by RUS on a case by case basis.