This bill establishes the Disability Mortality and Abuse Prevention Advisory Committee within the Department of Human Services (DHS) to address issues related to adults over the age of 18 with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have experienced abuse, neglect, or exploitation, or who have passed away. The committee's responsibilities include critically reviewing select cases, evaluating government responses, identifying areas for improvement, enhancing accountability among service providers, and suggesting measures to improve reporting and investigatory processes. The committee will consist of 13 members appointed by the Commissioner of Human Services, including professionals, family members, and representatives from relevant agencies.
Additionally, the bill authorizes the DHS and the Department of Children and Families to provide confidential client information to the advisory committee, which will maintain strict confidentiality regarding its findings and recommendations. The committee is required to submit a report to the Governor and the Legislature within 27 months of the bill's enactment, summarizing its findings and comparing New Jersey's service provision with other states. The bill also includes an appropriation from the General Fund to support its implementation and will take effect 90 days after enactment, expiring upon the submission of the required report.