Keys can be made for $65 at the dealership - need title/registration and owner with driver's license.
There is a reference to a 'VATS bypass' in the forums. Did a quick read of the VATS bypass and it has you cutting wires and inserting a resistor to mimic the key resistor. Details are below. So it does not really replace the VATS module that decides to allow the car to start. It just replaces key's resistor with a permanently installed resistor under the dash. It only bypasses the wiring in the steering column and ignition. It would allow a non VATS key to be used.
Lots of key blanks for sale on eBay for $7-$20. Search for 'VATS Key'. This seller below says to go to dealer with key and they can tell you which of the 15 VATS key codes it is. - or measure the resistance yourself in ohms and look it up in their chart. Current key measures 2400 ohms which is a VATS code #8. It gets more expensive when you lose the key and have to put in an ignition switch.
http://www.vatskey.com (has video with info and measuring instructions)
or
http://www.ebay.com/itm/GM-Buick-Cadillac-Chevrolet-Pontiac-OEM-Vats-Key-Secondary-H-Key-Blank-Blanks-/191536037384?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item2c986ffe08&vxp=mtr
VATS Bypass procedure
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| VATS Bypass p1 |
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| VATS Bypass p2 |
