== Resolution==
Although the basic elements of the 2013 federal spending levels, federal debt ceiling, and possible tax reform remain unaddressed, a new [[American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012]] was passed by the Senate 89-8 and by the House 257-167 on January 1, 2013 with President Obama signing it on January 2, 2012. In brief, the law:
:*allows [[spending authority]] to continue at current levelsby [[continuing resolution]]
*delays sequestration by two months
*adopts permanent reduction of income tax rates for 98% of taxpayers