The issue is being reopened again in part because of an MTA/Rockland fight over participation in NJ Transit's West Shore Line study. West Shore commuter rail service from Haverstraw or Nyack to Penn Station via NJ Transit's new Secaucus Transfer station would be a huge improvement in Rockland transit. County leaders badly want the service, but the MTA appears to be uninterested in another line that would require cooperation with New Jersey. NJT said last May it would institute service on the West Shore Line in conjunction with work on the Northern Branch and the Susquehanna & Western Line (MTR #219). But questions remain as to whether the money or the political will is there to see the all three projects through and no indication has been given as to which line will be built first. Rockland wants the MTA at the table with real money to help influence the choice in favor of the West Shore Line.

In 1998, county lawmakers decided not to pursue secession when the MTA gave the county 3 million dollars to run the Tappan Zee Express bus service that now shuttles Rockland residents to the Metro-North station in Tarrytown. This time, Vanderhoef says Rockland will remain only if less county tax money is siphoned to the MTA or if the MTA commits more funds towards the West Shore Line.

If Vanderhoef's measure is approved, Rockland and its neighbor, Orange County, could seek transit contracts with NJ Transit, Shortline Bus or other vendors. If Rockland secedes from the MTA, it would have the option of investing some of the freed-up funds in the West Shore line. Any change in Rockland's status or fees must be approved by both houses of the state legislature and Governor Pataki.