(CNN) -- Outrage over the possibility that a Van Gogh, Bruegel, or any other treasure at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) could be sold to pay down the city's debts prompted a Michigan state senator to propose legislation to protect the masterpieces. Under the bill presented Wednesday by Sen. Randy Richardville, any art museum in the state must adhere to a code of ethics set forth by the American Alliance of Museums, which prohibits the sale of pieces unless the money is directed to improving the museum's collection. The DIA has a similar policy with the city, but the government's emergency manager has the power to cancel or modify it.
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Detroit is in deep debt
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Officials ask for inventory of art collection in museum
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That's raised outcry from those worried about possible sale
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Spokesman for emergency manager says sale not planned
It's a part of the community and part of what makes Detroit, @placeholder," said Richardville.