Hi,
There are many good and not so good options in terms of lowering your ride.
The worst option is to cut the springs, as you will alter the strength of the springs and change the dynamic of them.
The second worst option is to get "spring reducers", some "tools" to attach on the springs and reduce the span.
If you are on a budget, look around in ebay or in the classified section at tunermotorsport - from time to time will you find very good used sets offered at "nothing".
Then, you can go for new sets, price staring at around $150 or so for a good set, look for German springs as the "Germans" are the leaders in this area.
Brands like H&R, Eibach, are consideres as the top brands, but a bit more intense search will lead you to more unkown brands (in US) as Vogtland and AP sportsfahrwerke, which both here in Europe are considered THE options.
Lastly and more expensive can you go for options made by ACS, Hartge & Hamann, etc. - these options will not get you any better ride, only a deeper hole in your pocket and a better sound..."My ride is fitted with an ACS suspension"
I don't know a clue about inspection in the US, but here in Europe if fit lowering springs must you remember to change the shocks as well.
If the springs can't "connect" to the top and bottom while lifted due to the span of the shocks will the car not pass inspecstion.