West Virginia Sen. Robert C. Byrd is asking the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to develop a clear set of rules for issuing coal mining permits.

Byrd made his request Monday during a meeting with EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson. Jackson requested the meeting and it's the second time the two have talked about the permitting of coal mines in West Virginia.

Byrd says the EPA must work with other regulatory agencies and others to develop a clear set of rules for issuing mining permits.

The two also discussed the need for all to maintain a civil discourse if a resolution is to be found.

Earlier this month, Byrd issued a statement saying the coal industry wasn't helping its cause by attacking opponents and sowing fear in the Appalachian coalfields.

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