Couple quick questions.

Removing the cat is just stupid, its there for a reason.

But if you plan on relocating the cat, taking it to a shop isn't the best idea. At least in CA. Once the old cat comes off, by law no shop can put it back on. It has to be replaced with a new one. This is why a lot of exhausts are "after cat" systems.

or just have the exhaust shop put two bends in the existing exhaust system and have them move the exhaust up closer to the floor.... my exhaust is in the stock location same thing with the cat, just moved up above the frame rails to keep from dragging.

va emissions are not as stringent. you should have no probs, just talk to them before you have them start.