I wonder if they can they tell us, "If you ask again after (date of rebate ending), I expected to be able to offer the lens at $(discounted price)". This way they're respecting the Canon rebate pricing during the rebate period, but also letting you know if you should buy during the rebate, or wait it out. The 'expect to be able to' also allows for adjustment based on unexpected price hikes taking effect once the rebate period ends, so they're not accidentally taking a loss by attempting to do us a favor.