whats going on with filing taxes this year?

Answer 1

There is a delay until 2/11 to be able to file if you use one of the following forms:
• Form 8863, Education Credits.
• Form 5695, Residential Energy Credits.
• Form 1040A's Schedule 2, Child and Dependent Care Expenses for Form 1040A Filers.
• Form 8396, Mortgage Interest Credit and
• Form 8859, District of Columbia First-Time Homebuyer Credit.

Otherwise there is no effect on you from Congress not getting around to passing new rules until a week or so ago.

Answer 2

If you are not in the Alternative Minimum Tax zone, nothing. If you are, refunds on early filed returns will be delayed until mid February.