Wow, I _so_ don't miss MA when it comes to this kind of stuff (I grew up in Southampton). Such a ridiculous hassle...nanny state gone mad. I mean seriously...cameras??? Is there really a massive problem with unsafe cars getting stickers that rises to the level of needing this kind of intervention? Uh...no!
I live in TN now, and have for about 12 years. In some counties, you have to get emissions tested once a year, and others, nothing at all. I just moved to a county where this is no inspection of any kind.
And guess what? There is no epidemic of wheels falling off, or run away pollution, or any other related problem. One county recently dropped the emissions testing after a review of the data showed that over 96% of vehicles tested passed on the first try, over the last 12 years.
Anyway, the point is, I feel your pain! Never forget!