Some Hudson Valley business owners say the possible Metropolitan Transportation Authority rescue plan places an unfair burden on their wallets.

The bailout, which would total $1.7 billion, is designed to avoid MTA fare increases of nearly 25 percent, as well as service cuts and layoffs. Officials say the rescue plan would cover the current MTA deficit, as well as some capital funding.

Senate Democratic Majority Leader Malcolm Smith met with key senators from Westchester and Long Island Monday night and said he secured their support of the tentative agreement. Rockland County Executive Scott Vanderhoef says the tax is a slap in the face for Rockland business owners and commuters.

"This payroll tax is a job-killing tax and we're struggling to keep jobs alive in Rockland County," Vanderhoef says.

Employers within the MTA service region would pay 34 cents per $100 of payroll in Rockland, Westchester and on Long Island and 25 cents per $100 of payroll in Orange, Putnam and Dutchess counties.

Some residents believe the payroll taxes are a better way to acquire the money than fare hikes.