The Justice for Vulnerable Residents Act establishes the Justice Center for the Protection of Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities in New Jersey, an independent entity under the Department of Law and Public Safety. This center is responsible for investigating allegations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities in state-licensed or operated residential and day habilitation settings. The Act emphasizes the need for a centralized and independent investigation process to enhance the safety and dignity of these vulnerable individuals, as advocated by the Office of the Ombudsman and various advocates.

The Justice Center will be led by a director appointed by the Governor, supported by two deputy directors for criminal and civil investigations. The Act mandates that investigations be completed within 90 days and that written reports detailing findings and recommendations be issued. Additionally, the legislation creates the Justice Center Disability Mortality and Abuse Prevention Medical Review Board to review unusual deaths of individuals in state-operated facilities and make recommendations for prevention. The director is also required to submit an annual report on the center's activities, reflecting a significant restructuring of oversight mechanisms for protecting vulnerable individuals in New Jersey.