A recent Gazette article highlighted what has become known as the “Montana loophole,” where some Colorado residents establish Montana limited liability companies (LLCs) to register vehicles outside Colorado while the vehicles are primarily owned, garaged and operated here.

The story has generated considerable discussion, and understandably so. As the elected El Paso County Clerk & Recorder, I believe it presents an opportunity to educate—not to criticize.

First, it’s important to understand the role of my office.

The El Paso County Clerk & Recorder’s Office administers Colorado’s motor vehicle registration laws on behalf of the State of Colorado. We do not write the laws, establish vehicle ownership taxes or determine registration fees. Those decisions are made by the Colorado General Assembly and other taxing authorities. Our responsibility is to apply the law fairly, accurately and consistently to every customer who walks through our doors.

It is also important to acknowledge something that many Colorado vehicle owners already know.

Colorado is generally regarded as one of the more expensive states in the nation to register a new or high-value vehicle. Various national analyses and tax comparisons have consistently placed Colorado among the states with the highest registration costs for newer vehicles because of our value-based Specific Ownership Tax. While registration costs decline as a vehicle ages, the initial years of ownership can be significantly more expensive than in many other states.

As your Clerk & Recorder, I have consistently opposed increases in vehicle ownership taxes and additional vehicle registration fees. I understand the financial burden that many Colorado families face, and I have long advocated for keeping government costs as low as possible while continuing to provide excellent customer service.

At the same time, regardless of our opinions about the cost of registration, the law applies equally to everyone.

Every day, thousands of El Paso County residents register their vehicles in compliance with Colorado law. They do so because they understand that registration is more than simply receiving a license plate. It is part of the system established by the General Assembly to fund transportation infrastructure and support local governments, schools, emergency services, and other public services through the distribution of taxes and fees collected during the registration process.

Colorado law generally requires residents to register vehicles that are principally kept and operated in Colorado within the statutory timeframes after becoming a resident or acquiring the vehicle. Those requirements apply regardless of whether someone owns an economy car, a pickup truck, a family SUV, a recreational vehicle, or a high-end luxury automobile.

The issue raised in the recent article is not about the type or value of the vehicle.

It is about applying the same laws equally to everyone.

Most Coloradans willingly comply with those laws. They pay the taxes and fees required under Colorado statute, renew their registrations on time, and help support the services and infrastructure they use every day. That voluntary compliance is one of the reasons our registration system functions effectively.

When questions arise regarding vehicles that may be improperly registered outside Colorado despite being owned and operated here, those questions deserve thoughtful attention. At the same time, it is important to recognize that every situation is unique. Determining whether a vehicle complies with Colorado law requires examining the specific facts and applicable statutes, not making assumptions based solely on an out-of-state license plate.

The overwhelming majority of motorists do the right thing.

That deserves recognition.

Our Motor Vehicle team has the privilege of serving thousands of customers every day. They answer questions, explain complex registration requirements, assist new Colorado residents, work with dealerships, and help ensure every transaction is completed accurately and efficiently. Their goal is not simply to process paperwork, it is to provide exceptional customer service while faithfully administering Colorado law.

I also believe this discussion highlights a broader principle that extends beyond vehicle registration.

Public confidence depends on fairness.

Citizens should know that the laws are applied consistently regardless of income, occupation, or the value of the vehicle someone chooses to drive. Equal application of the law is one of the cornerstones of public trust in government.

If the General Assembly determines that changes to Colorado’s registration system are appropriate, that is a policy discussion for our elected lawmakers. Likewise, if state agencies identify patterns of noncompliance, they have investigative and enforcement responsibilities under existing law.

Our role remains unchanged.

The El Paso County Clerk & Recorder’s Office will continue to administer Colorado’s motor vehicle registration laws professionally, impartially, and with respect for every customer we serve. We remain committed to providing accurate information, exceptional customer service, and a registration system that is fair to everyone.

Whether you drive a compact sedan, a family SUV, a work truck, an RV, or a luxury automobile, the expectation is the same: compliance with Colorado law.

That isn’t about politics.

It isn’t about the cost of registration.

It isn’t about the value of the vehicle.

It’s about fairness, equal application of the law, and ensuring that every Colorado resident plays by the same rules.