(1) In addition to their monthly benefit payment, a family may earn and keep the first $500 of the family's earnings in addition to one-half of the family's remaining earnings during every month it is eligible to receive assistance under this section.
(2) In no event may a family be eligible for temporary assistance for needy families if its monthly gross earned income exceeds the maximum earned income level as set by the department. In calculating a household's gross earnings, the department shall disregard the earnings of a minor child who is:
(a) A full-time student; or
(b) A part-time student carrying at least half the normal school load and working fewer than 35 hours per week.