I already knew about that policy for iPhones - it was put in place so they could track how many you were buying. I suppose it's the same for iPads. I don't personally agree with the policy and IMO, the stores should be forced to accept payment in cash for anything under $10000 (the point at which even at the bank you'd have to fill out a source/origin of funds declaration form/affidavit).

Don't you guys have some laws about stores not accepting cash?