What must the IACUC do to suspend an animal activity?

To suspend an animal activity, the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) is required to vote by a majority at a convened meeting. This process ensures that decisions regarding the suspension of any animal-related activities are made transparently and democratically, reflecting the collective judgement of the committee members. The requirement for a majority vote underscores the seriousness of such decisions and the committee's role in protecting animal welfare, ensuring compliance with regulations, and maintaining ethical standards in research involving animals.

A simple majority at a convened meeting provides a clear framework for accountability, allowing IACUC members to discuss the reasons for the suspension and to weigh the potential consequences. This encourages thoughtful deliberation rather than arbitrary or unilateral decisions regarding animal activities.

Other options focus on procedures that are not required for suspension. Convening a majority of the animal care committee doesn't involve a formal voting structure, notifying the public is not a mandated step for suspension, and re-evaluating all current protocols is not necessarily linked to the suspension decision itself. The emphasis on majority voting at a convened meeting captures the essence of responsible governance in animal research oversight.