The state legislature approved the liquor modernization bill yesterday and the legislation is on its way to Governor Tom Wolf’s desk for final review.

“My goal is to modernize the sale of liquor and beer in Pennsylvania to ensure convenience and satisfaction for customers,” the Governor stated.  “Once the bill reaches my desk, I will conduct a final review of the legislation.”

This bill would allow grocery stores to sell wine to their customers, no restrictions on hours or state-mandated holidays, restaurants and hotels to be able to sell up to four bottles of wine for take-out and casinos can sell beer, liquor and wine 24/7, among other provisions of the bill.

House Majority Leader Dave Reed, R-Indiana County, states on the liquor modernization bill:

“Overall we view this as the first step to fully privatizing our liquor system in Pennsylvania,” House Majority Leader Dave Reed stated. “It’s the most significant step in 80 years. This puts wine into the private sector, like consumers have been looking for for years.”

Reed also commented that the bill is expected to bring in an additional $150 million in revenue to the state of Pennsylvania.

House Speaker Mike Turzai, another supporter of the bill is confident that Governor Wolf will sign the bill. “I’ve been very pleased with the discussions we’ve had with the governor on many fronts,” Turzai commented.

Governor Wolf states that he will review the legislation to ensure it is in line with his “goals of enhancing the customer experience, increasing much-needed revenue to help balance our budget, and bringing our wine and spirits system into the 21st century.”