Good morning, Hartford.

East Hartford police said a 17-year-old died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after officers chased him when four individuals left AAA Diner without paying their bill + investigators continue to review the scene.

The state legislature passed a special education reform bill that will change how private providers charge for services and add more oversight over programs—approved unanimously in both chambers.

The bill will go to Governor Ned Lamont’s desk to be signed and includes extra funds to boost special education services.

The House passed Senate Bill 1 that will create an endowment for early childhood education drawing up to $300 million each year from surplus funds so that families earning less than $100k pay nothing for infant, toddler and pre-K care while capping fees for higher incomes.

The bill also boosts childcare worker salaries and funds facility upgrades—House Bill 5003 was approved to set up a portal to help parents find available childcare spots and allow child care homes to care for up to 12 children.

State legislators received a two-year $55.8 billion budget plan on Monday that boosts spending for child care, special education and Medicaid; the package includes a $300 million child care fund that will add about 16,000 day care slots from 2027 and an annual $250 payment for families on the earned income tax credit. Lawmakers will vote on the plan soon before sending it to the Senate for final approval—steps that will shape tax and spending changes across the state.

Downtown Hartford’s XL Center is now becoming the PeoplesBank Arena as it undergoes major renovations that add new seating, suites, a premium club and other upgrades to attract more concerts, games and events.

Gov. Ned Lamont said the rebrand plays a key role in the city’s revitalization—fueled by new housing and construction near the Hartford Yard Goats.

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.

Back to the Future - The Musical

7:30-9 p.m. — William H. Mortensen Hall — Tickets available — Experience the musical adaptation of the iconic 80's film with Marty McFly and friends.

Unicorn World

9:00-10:30 a.m. — Connecticut Convention Center — Family-friendly fun — Experience a magical world with life-like unicorns and enchanting activities.

Little Poland Festival

12:30-6 p.m. — Little Poland Festival — Free entry — Experience live music, ethnic food, and vibrant folk performances in New Britain's Little Poland district.

Educational Dinner on Hemophilia Treatments

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Artisan Restaurant West Hartford — $10 for non-members — Discover Qfitlia, a new therapy for Hemophilia A and B while enjoying a meal.

Youth Fountain Concert

7-10 PM — The Webster — Tickets may be required — Experience a cathartic pop-punk and post-emo musical journey.

Comedy Night at Long View Ciderhouse

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Long View Ciderhouse Orchard Bar — Enjoy the humor and laughter with talented comedians showcasing their skills.

Sit or Start Soccer Workouts

8-10 a.m. — 65 Van Block Ave — Pricing info not provided — Enhance your technical skills and agility with focused soccer training sessions for middle and high school athletes.

Insurance Trivia Challenge

5-7 p.m. — Parkville Market — Free entry — Test your insurance knowledge and enjoy a fun trivia night with friends and colleagues.