Subd. 4. Temporary absence due to illness.

For the purposes of this subdivision, "home" means a residence owned or rented by a recipient or the recipient's spouse. Assistance payments for recipients who are temporarily absent from their home due to hospitalization for illness must continue at the same level of payment during their absence if the following criteria are met:

(1) a physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant certifies that the absence is not expected to continue for more than three months;

(2) a physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant certifies that the recipient will be able to return to independent living; and

(3) the recipient has expenses associated with maintaining a residence in the community.