THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

WASHINGTON -- The federal government opposes a request by John Hinckley Jr. to have expanded visits with his family in Virginia.

Hinckley has been committed to a mental hospital since he shot and wounded President Reagan in 1981 during an assassination attempt. Hinckley was found not guilty by reason of insanity.

A court hearing started today on Hinckley's request seeking an increase in the length of his visits to his mother's home in Williamsburg. He also wants to do volunteer work during the visits and to get a driver's license. The mental hospital supports his request.