A law establishing a remembrance day in New York schools in commemoration of the Sept. 11 attacks was signed into law on Monday by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

The measure allows for a brief moment of silence in public schools on the anniversary of the terrorist attacks. Wednesday marks 18 years since the attacks in New York City, Washington and Pennsylvania.

The new law takes effect immediately.

“9/11 was one of the single darkest periods in this state’s and this nation’s history, and we owe it to those we lost and to the countless heroes who ran toward danger that day and the days that followed to do everything we can to keep their memory alive,” Cuomo said.

“By establishing this annual day of remembrance and a brief moment of silence in public schools, we will help ensure we never forget — not just the pain of that moment but of the courage, sacrifice and outpouring of love that defined our response.”

The measure was sponsored by Sen. Joe Addabbo and Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato.