SECTION 551.45. Wheelchair Self-Release Seat Belts

(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 legally authorized representative (LAR) 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 individual program plan (IPP); and

(4) the facility receives written authorization, signed by the resident or the resident's LAR, 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 IPP; or

(3) the resident or the resident's LAR revokes in writing the authorization for the resident to use the self-release seat belt.

Source Note: The provisions of this §551.45 adopted to be effective January 1, 2018, 42 TexReg 7727; transferred effective May 1, 2019, as published in the Texas Register April 12, 2019, 44 TexReg 1883; amended to be effective February 24, 2022, 47 TexReg 787