Replace the Debt Ceiling with a formula reflecting the capacity of the nation to pay its debts

The Debt Ceiling has a specific purpose, which is to prevent the government from allowing the national debt to exceed the level at which the nation is no longer able to meet its obligations to that debt. As the debt ceiling is a number that is agreed upon by vote of Congress, it has become merely a number that reflects the amount that the government wishes to increase the debt by overspending in any given year. As a consequence, it becomes a flashpoint of partisan politics. Be it resolved that the government should generate, to the best of its ability, a formula reflecting the true ability of the government to pay its debts. Congress may vote to alter the formula, but may not alter the value of the debt ceiling itself.