New Jersey has been a national leader in the fight against steroid use among student athletes, and it’s now time to double down on our efforts.

In 2005, national steroid use among student athletes was reaching record highs, despite warnings that using the performance-enhancing drug could stunt growth, lead to erratic behavior or even death if not taken under a doctor’s orders. In response, as governor, I signed an executive order establishing the nation’s first statewide random steroid testing program for student athletes.

A national conversation over the dangers of steroids ensued as a parade of superstar athletes — from Alex Rodriguez and Barry Bonds to Marion Jones and Lance Armstrong — were associated with using dangerous performance-enhancing drugs.