Economists say we’ve at least started the debate over federal spending as 2013 dawns, but many factors will influence economic performance.

Children born in 1996, when Congress authorized creation of federal 529 college-savings plans, will likely start their final year of high school this fall. Those whose parents took advantage of the tax-deferred plans will have a cushion when the tuition bill comes due. Read more… select Taming the Tuition Tiger.