With Democrats set to take control of the New York State Legislature on Jan. 1, what is on the mind of many New York City lawmakers who will dominate state government? Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg.

New York City Democrats are taking aim at the popular Republican mayor with legislation that could keep him from seeking re-election by reimposing term limits for city elected officials.

The City Council, with the leadership of Mayor Bloomberg, recently revised the city's term limits law to permit the mayor, council members and other officeholders to hold three consecutive four-year terms, instead of restricting them to two consecutive terms.

But some state Democratic lawmakers, hoping to capitalize on their newfound majority in the Senate come Jan. 1, want to interfere with New York City's government and reverse the decision by elected city officials.

State Sen. Kevin S. Parker and Assemblyman Hakeem Jeffries, both Brooklyn Democrats, have prepared legislation requiring a public referendum before the revised term limits law can take effect.

Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, D-Manhattan, has said he would let the bill proceed through the normal legislative process, although it has a good chance of passing. Mr. Silver has not taken a position on it, but 65 of the Assembly's 150 members are from the city.

The proposal gained some momentum with the anticipated change in power in the state Senate. Republicans had been expected to block the legislation, but now Democrats have a two-vote majority in the chamber. Sen. Malcolm A. Smith, D-Queens, said he will allow the bill to come to a vote as majority leader.

The hope of the legislators is to prevent Mayor Bloomberg from getting elected to a third term in 2009, which would put him in position to challenge a Democratic governor in 2010 if Mr. Bloomberg chooses to run.

But that should be up to New York City residents to decide. If New Yorkers don't want Mayor Bloomberg for a third term, let them say so in the voting booth. Meanwhile, state lawmakers have enough to contend with — starting with next week's special session to close a $12.5 billion deficit in the next couple of years. They would do better to focus on that and stay out of New York City affairs.