Fake nurseries and town squares seem to comfort patients. But some experts wonder whether they are patronizing, even infantilizing.

In place of the state, a nonprofit association has regulatory authority over about two dozen of the facilities.

Unregulated homes are proliferating amid abortion restrictions and a housing crunch. Some limit residents’ movements, contacts and day-to-day decisions.

The positions of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on vaccines and drug companies are well known. His approach to addiction has been far less scrutinized.

Brad Lander, the New York City comptroller who is running for mayor, announced a major plan to address homelessness after a series of violent attacks on the subway.