FFB, surely it's up to the ATCO to decide if a traffic service can be provided, or not. I have often heard controllers offering a basic service only, rather than the traffic service requested, "due to controller workload".
Can't say I blame them, sometimes the LARS frequencies become so busy (especially on fine weekends after a period of bad weather) that the amount of chatter becomes counterproductive to flight safety.
Yes of course any requested service can be declined by ATC. (talking about Class G airspace here).
I agree with you about RT workload on LARS at busy times but then when you hear some of the RT procedure......