Texting behind the wheel is a concern that's now getting attention at the West Virginia Legislature. While lawmakers discuss whether or not it should be illegal, it's something already discouraged in the classroom.

Parkersburg South High School drivers education teacher, Dan Clevenger, says many students admit to texting while driving.

He says it's a major distraction that should be against the law, and that it should be strict enough to get drivers' attention.

Clevenger says texting behind the wheel is a risk he'd like to see all age groups stop taking.

"Driving isn't just a physical task; it's a thinking task. Well, how can your mind be thinking of texting, actually doing it, what you're wanting to say on the text and expected to be able to handle situations that's gonna happen every few seconds on the roadway?" Clevenger said.

If the bill becomes a law, texting while driving in the mountain state would be considered a misdemeanor with a fine up to $100.

Across the river in Ohio, officials say there are no laws that state it's actually illegal to text behind the wheel, but there is a law concerning wreckless driving that could include sending text messages.