I think the problem was there were some dealers who were removing the kits and selling them separate from the rifle. People badmouthed Colt so they did the only thing they could reasonably do...stop including the kits and reducing the MSRP of the rifle.
Alot if that kind of activity in the firearms industry. Check out fleabay and gunbroker auctions. There is a little honest ignorance but much of occurring is fraud.