The race to vaccinate the population against COVID-19 is zeroing in on college students in New York.

Lawmakers are pushing to make vaccines mandatory before students can return to college campuses across the state.

Democratic state Sen. Brad Hoylman's bill would add COVID-19 to the list of vaccinations already required for college students, which currently include measles, mumps and rubella.

The goal of the bill is to limit the spread of the virus on college campuses. Hoylman is pitching the proposal as vaccine participation has slowed in New York and around the country.

Dr. David Hirschwerk, of Northwell Health, says the measure would help reign in the spread of the virus among students, while also protecting nearby communities.

Students News 12 spoke with say they're ready and willing to get the COVID-19 shot.

“I think everyone should get vaccinated,” says Francine McDonnell, a student at Nassau Community College. “We don't want to spread COVID to anyone and it would be better for the future. We could move on to returning to classes in person.”

Most Long Island colleges and universities News 12 spoke with are not requiring vaccines right now.

A spokesperson at Hofstra University says they're discussing the possibility and will make a decision in the coming days.

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