Fyi for anyone else in this situation, the head of college advising answered my question, to say not taking the AP would have no effect on my son’s college admissions.
Possibly a bit like SAT subject tests – my son’s older brothers didn’t take them and they both did fine with admissions.
I am not saying this advice applies to everyone, but that not everyone under every circumstance needs to take these tests.
PS @sushiritto wow, that’s a great example of where taking AP’s add a great deal of benefit! Well done to your son.