Good morning, Hartford.

The state House passed a law (House Bill 7236) on May 15 by a 139-4 vote to add extra protections for victims of human trafficking and sexual assault, offering safeguards such as preventing discrimination from landlords and employers and granting an affirmative defense for related misdemeanors when proper documentation is provided.

Today, I-TEAM Hartford looked into where pedestrians and bikers are most injured on roads like Capitol Avenue and Park Street—areas with high crash counts—and city officials responded by installing bollards to slow traffic.

Mayor Arulumpalum noted that four bollards were replaced in the first two weeks as efforts continue to improve safety for residents.

The Connecticut Senate passed a bill to regulate artificial intelligence — SB2 — and a data privacy measure that boosts consumer control over personal data; both bills now head to the House, and some lawmakers expressed concern that key protections for vulnerable groups were weakened. This action was part of a marathon session that ended just before midnight on Tuesday.

Immigration attorneys reported that under current Connecticut DMV policies, refugees, asylum seekers and DACA recipients are not allowed to obtain a REAL ID—though federal guidelines permit these groups to apply.

DMV officials say they are working to update the rules soon while affected residents risk longer travel times without the proper documentation.

State officials must fix a $300 million Medicaid shortfall by Wednesday so that providers get paid, and talks are slowed by bundling this issue with next year’s budget.

Lawmakers will vote on a bill Monday — a move that may tap over $2 billion in surplus funds — while Gov. Lamont says spending rules must remain in place.

Mindful Hike at Penwood State Park

1-4:15 p.m. — Penwood State Park Parking — Free entry — Experience a moderate hike combined with mindfulness skills amidst the beauty of nature.

Hartford and Springfield Actuaries Convention

5 AM – 2 PM — Connecticut Convention Center — Registration fees apply — Engage in professional development and networking with top industry speakers.

Destined Rivals Prerelease Tournament

Tournament Name — 10 a.m. — Tabletop Gaming Center — Registration fee applicable — Compete in the latest TCG series with fellow enthusiasts.

Senior Living Awards Virtual Tour

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Online Event — Free entry — Explore the best of senior living communities and their exceptional services and awards.

League Challenge Tournament

6:30 PM — Tabletop Gaming Center — Competitive entry — Show off your TCG skills at the local league challenge.

New Hampshire Fisher Cats at Hartford Yard Goats

7:10-8:40 p.m. — Dunkin' Park — Ticket prices vary — Catch the thrilling action as the Fisher Cats take on the Yard Goats in an exciting baseball showdown.

Yard Goats Baseball Game

12:10-3:00 p.m. — Dunkin' Park — $40 — Catch the Hartford Yard Goats in action while enjoying a buffet and great seating on the Yeungling Party Deck.

Back To The Future - The Musical

8 p.m. — William H. Mortensen Hall — Tickets available — The beloved 80's film classic comes to life in a brand-new musical journey through time and space.

Evening Retreat for Music Ministers

6-9 p.m. — Holy Family Retreat & Conference Center — $45 for non-members, $35 for NPM members — Gather with fellow music ministers for an evening of singing, learning, and spiritual reflection.

Smino's Kountry Kousins Tour

7:00-8:30 p.m. — The Webster — Ticket prices vary — Experience Smino's genre-blurring sound with sharp lyricism and infectious groove alongside Samara Cyn.