This community is open to everyone!
Like you said the theory and basic developmental stuff is the same world over - although ideas on practices vary greatly across cultures.
Laws in the US from my understanding are very state dependent as well (Some don't even require qualified/trained staff from what I hear😱). Although I hear good things about centres operating under NAEYC accreditation.
Although obviously I can't answer any questions that are too US specific and so far I'm the only person here. I'll still do my best to try and research into it if no one else can help.