Getting out of Debt -- FYI

I was reading in the paper today, online, and a story about credit card companies having the ability to up their 'minimum' payment to 4% of the balance as opposed to 2% caught my eye. The government has decided that personal debt is to high, so to help us out (during this Holiday Season) they have put new rules into effect as of December 1 that will allow credit card companies to double the payments due by consumers. Granted you get out of debt faster, but instead of having a month (two pay periods) to pay off that Christmas present this year, you'll have to have the funds up front when the bill is due. So be careful when shopping this year on how much you actually put on credit cards...it could get a little less than merry if you're not careful. (Minimum Payment Increases)

P.S. Is there something we can do for the government to get them out of debt?