The Recreation Vehicle Industry Association, whose members include Forest City-based Winnebago Industries Inc., has hired Sonnenschein Nath & Rosenthal LLP to lobby the federal government, the Associated Press reported.

The organization is concerned that an increase in fuel economy mandates would cause automakers to create vehicles with reduced towing abilities. About 75 percent of RVs are towed by another vehicle, according to association spokesman Kevin Broom.

In June, the Senate passed legislation that would increase the required average fuel economy to 35 miles per gallon for cars, SUVs and pickup trucks by 2020; at least two House proposals would boost gas mileage standards.

The RV industry generates about $14.5 billion a year and has had five consecutive years of growth despite high gas prices.