Some Bridgeport residents are calling for a ban on credit card pre-authorization holds used by various gas retailers.

Although the practice is designed to ensure gas stations receive money, customers argue that the holds can temporarily limit their purchasing power for up to 72 hours.

Resident Wayne Winston told News 12 that he bought $67 worth of gas, but had a hold placed on his credit card for $150.

"That's a huge issue. $150- it's over twice what I bought,” he said. “If you're going shopping and you think you have $200 and you have just bought gas, filled your car up and you find out you have only $50, the hardships that creates are just incredible."

Consumer groups say the best way to avoid the hold is to pay in cash.