(a) RUS telephone borrowers are encouraged to utilize their own funds to participate in the economic development of rural areas, provided that such activity does not impair a borrower's ability to provide modern telecommunications services at reasonable rates or to repay its indebtedness to RUS and other lenders. When considering loans, investments, or guarantees, borrowers are expected to act in accordance with prudent business practices and in conformity with the laws of the jurisdictions in which they serve.

(b) [Reserved]