The "kickback" is given to the citizens in the form of lower taxes needed to support budgets. Most of my budget comes from "asset forfeiture" accounts (thanks in part to I-564 as well as drug-related and computer evidence seizures).

Cops ask the question so they have the chance to smell your breath and check for slurred speech in a response (I teach a few courses at the academy).

Aren't they supposed to write tickets for illegal stuff? If they pulled you over for illegal equipment, having an aftermarket exhaust and lowered suspension is probable cause. When trailing behind a vehicle, a ricer wing and exhaust stands out from a stock looking sedan. That's why imports get pulled more often than domestics -- tickets for illegal equipment (exhaust, suspension, lights, things hanging from rearview mirror, license plate covers, etc).

Then again, maybe it was a colorblind cop looking for a blue Probe with CF hood.

The automated system is fine, imho, and does not violate any privacy concerns as it is simply a more efficient means of a current system and provides no further data or usage. I am very wary of "scope" when it comes to search warrants and probable cause. I keep my glove compartment and trunk locked, same with my hidden safe in the car. A concealed weapons permit will get you on a cop's good side faster than a glazed donut.

As for barcoding people, Germans tried it already. A guy I used to contract for still has the numbers on his arm. One guy was sitting in his office, negotiating on a price with us, and he actually said, "Hey man, don't try to jew me on this." Wow.