Sweeping liquor reforms that would keep the existing state stores but expand sales at grocery stores and restaurants passed the House Tuesday on its way to Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf's desk.

"We are, in fact, going to move Pennsylvania into the 21st century," said House Speaker Mike Turzai. "It is an important, historic step and this is a product that is shared by all of us."

House Bill 1690, which Turzai sponsored, had been subjected to substantial amendments in the Senate, intended as a possible compromise as part of last year's budget impasse, that included the various changes to the state's liquor system.

On Tuesday, the Senate version was resurrected by the House and passed in a 157-31 vote.

Turzai, a longtime proponent of privatizing the state system, was optimistic that it would be signed into law by Wolf. He stressed that the law passed Tuesday would be the first step, not the last.

"It's a historic opportunity today," he said, "and I think the governor will sign it. I've been very pleased with the discussions we've had with the governor on many fronts."

Wolf, in a written statement Tuesday, said he planned to review the legislation "to ensure it meets my goals of enhancing customer experience, increasing much-needed revenue to help balance our budget, and bringing our wine and spirits system into the 21st century."

He did not indicate whether or not he intended to sign the bill.

Rep. Gene DiGirolamo, R-Bucks County, raised concern about expanding the availability across the state during floor debate. His concerns echoed those voiced by Philadelphia Democrat Rosita Youngblood earlier in the day.

"Alcohol, by far, is the most abused drug in this state and across this country," DiGirolamo said, asking his colleagues to vote against the bill.

Rep. Chris Ross, R-Chester County, said there would be no such expansion. Instead, it allows current licensees to offer a greater variety of alcohol.

"I don't see any new locations being offered here," he said.

The majority of lawmakers, from both parties, supported the measure.

"I've been working on this (issue) over a period of years and it's very rare the speaker and I agree on an issue," said Rep. Paul Costa, D-Allegheny County. "We do now."

Key components of the bill include:

No restrictions on hours, state-mandated holidays or

Opening up loyalty programs and coupons at state stores

Flexible pricing to allow state stores to offer special discounts and sales

Restaurants and hotels with licenses can sell up to four bottles of wine for take-out.

Grocery stores that currently sell beer, such as Wegman's, may also sell up to four bottles of wine.

Casinos can sell beer, liquor and wine 24/7. Liquor can be consumed off the gaming floor.

Casinos can provide beer, liquor and wine free of charge at invitation-only events

Wallace McKelvey may be reached at wmckelvey@pennlive.com. Follow him on Twitter @wjmckelvey. Find PennLive on Facebook.