(a) For the purposes of this section, a "self-release seat belt" is a seat belt on a resident's wheelchair that the resident demonstrates the ability to fasten and release without assistance. A self-release seat belt is not a restraint.
(b) Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, a facility must allow a resident to use a self-release seat belt if:
  (1) the resident or the resident's legal guardian requests that the resident use a self-release seat belt;
  (2) the resident consistently demonstrates the ability to fasten and release the self-release seat belt without assistance;
  (3) the use of the self-release seat belt is documented in and complies with the resident's comprehensive care plan; and
  (4) the facility receives written authorization, signed by the resident or the resident's legal guardian, for the resident to use the self-release seat belt.
(c) A facility that advertises as a restraint-free facility is not required to allow a resident to use a self-release seat belt if the facility:
  (1) provides a written statement to all residents that the facility is restraint-free and is not required to allow a resident to use a self-release seat belt; and
  (2) makes reasonable efforts to accommodate the concerns of a resident who requests a self-release seat belt in accordance with subsection (b) of this section.
(d) A facility is not required to continue to allow a resident to use a self-release seat belt in accordance with subsection (b) of this section if:
  (1) the resident cannot consistently demonstrate the ability to fasten and release the seat belt without assistance;
  (2) the use of the self-release seat belt does not comply with the resident's comprehensive care plan; or
  (3) the resident or the resident's legal guardian revokes in writing the authorization for the resident to use the self-release seat belt.

Source Note: The provisions of this §554.424 adopted to be effective January 1, 2018, 42 TexReg 7726; transferred effective January 15, 2021, as published in the Texas Register December 11, 2020, 45 TexReg 8871