Parting Shot: The Dent Act Rises

We see our share of press releases in these parts, but one item "rose" to the top of our list today. A new faux press release promoting The Dark Knight Rises has cropped up (at Mt. Dew's TDKR site, no less -- truly, the streets are being ruled with Dew), detailing new legislation in Gotham City known as the Dent Act. What is the Dent Act and what might it have to do with the plot of TDKR come July 20? You can scope out the press release, along with a full transcription after the cut. As usual, beware of potential spoilers.

MAYOR ANNOUNCES HIS SIGNING OF THE DENT ACT

This morning, Mayor Anthony Garcia signed the Dent Act. The legislation, passed unanimously by the City Assembly, will bolster the city's campaign against organized crime. One of the main features of the Act is the creation of stricter penalties, including the denial of parole, for those who commit any crime deemed as a part or function of a larger criminal enterprise. This will close the loophole that existed in the previous laws that hampered the city's ability to stamp out organized crime.

"Harvey Dent was a hero in the true sense of the word," said the Mayor. "His courage in taking on the criminal empires that ruled our streets saved our city. It would be inappropriate for us not to honor his sacrifice."

"Fifteen minutes ago, I signed a Bill, suitably named the Dent Act, that allows us to pick up where Harvey Dent left off. The legislation gives Police Commissioner Jim Gordon the tools needed to deal the final blow to the criminal and corrupt that remain active within our city."

"To those who claim this legislation creates a police state, my answer is very simple. Before the Dent Act, our city was so desperate that we placed our trust behind a masked vigilante who ultimately murdered the man who was truly Gotham's shining hope. Luckily for us, the hope has endured. This Bill is Harvey Dent's legacy and I intend to protect it."

At the Mayor's request, the City Assembly will introduce another Bill making the date of Harvey Dent's sacrifice an official city holiday, calling it Harvey Dent Day.

Released on behalf of Mayor Anthony Garcia by Gotham City Communications Bureau