The federal government like any family or corporation must have their books in order. Currently without a balanced budget Congress merely spends money that is not authorized by anyone, causes us to print money and we go further and further into economic ruin.
A balanced budget Amendment to the Constitution that forces Congress to pass a balanced budget every year, (Exceptions are national emergencies) OR they do not receive their pay and benefits would automatically get a balanced budget and end partisan bickering over this issue. Where the states have adopted such regulations, the budgets are all in perfect balance - i.e., revenues are equal to or greater than expenditures, thus obviating the need for deficit spending.
For more info and other Petitions - http://America2inc.com